Maintenance and operation of the adaptive optics module for NICI, the high-contrast coronagraphic imager of GEMINI observatory

Markus Hartung; Tom L. Hayward; M. Chun; A. Kellerer

doi:10.1117/12.858054

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28 July 2010 Maintenance and operation of the adaptive optics module for NICI, the high-contrast coronagraphic imager of GEMINI observatory

Markus Hartung; Tom L. Hayward; M. Chun; A. Kellerer

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Proceedings Volume 7736, Adaptive Optics Systems II; 77362K (2010) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.858054
Event: SPIE Astronomical Telescopes + Instrumentation, 2010, San Diego, California, United States

Abstract

NICI, the high-contrast coronagraphic imager of Gemini observatory, primarily dedicated to planet hunting has been offered to the astronomical community since end of 2008. We present our experiences in operating and maintaining NICI's 85 element curvature adaptive optics (AO) system. A detailed study of NICI AO telemetry data is also most relevant to prepare the arrival of next generation instruments. We summarize the behavior of interaction matrices, control matrices and error transfer functions under different operational conditions; a detailed understanding of the system helps monitoring and optimizing performance. Furthermore, we describe tuning (membrane mirror stroke/extra focal distance) for non-optimal seeing conditions as well as for niche applications of NICI such as observing small moons and asteroids. We compare on-sky measurements to theory or simulations.

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Markus Hartung, Tom L. Hayward, M. Chun, and A. Kellerer "Maintenance and operation of the adaptive optics module for NICI, the high-contrast coronagraphic imager of GEMINI observatory", Proc. SPIE 7736, Adaptive Optics Systems II, 77362K (28 July 2010); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.858054

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