Gemini Preprint #15


Gemini Instrumentation Program Overview

Doug Simons, Fred Gillett, Richard McGonegal
Gemini 8m Telescopes Project, 950 N. Cherry Ave., Tucson AZ 85719

Abstract.

Exploiting instrument platforms like the current generation of 8-10 m class telescopes represents a new era in instrument design, construction, handling, and use. Geminis instruments are no exception to this revolution. For example, since at least 50% of Geminis observing time will be queue scheduled, Cassegrain-mounted instruments will effectively remain on-line, ready to be called into service for typically months at a time with minimal delay to match observing programs with changing conditions. Furthermore, effective instrument emissivities of <1% will be needed to take advantage of the very low emissivity of the telescopes. Here we report on the technical status of the Phase I instruments, describe attention being given to the total system performance of the telescopes and instruments, and list some of the considerations going into the Phase II instrument program.

Appears in Proc. SPIE 2871, "Optical Telescopes of Today and Tomorrow".

Download the PostScript or PDF file.


Ruth A. Kneale / web@gemini.edu / November 15, 1996