The Return of the Mid-infrared to the VLT: News from the VISIR Upgrade
Journal
Date Issued
2015
Author(s)
Käufl, H. U.
•
Kerber, F.
•
Asmus, D.
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Baksai, P.
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Di Lieto, N.
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Duhoux, P.
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Heikamp, S.
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Hummel, C.
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Ives, D.
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Jakob, G.
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Kirchbauer, J. -P.
•
Mehrgan, L.
•
•
Pantin, E.
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Pozna, E.
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Riquelme, M.
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Sandrock, S.
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Siebenmorgen, R.
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Smette, A.
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Stegmeier, J.
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Taylor, J.
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Tristram, K.
•
Valdes, G.
•
van den Ancker, M.
•
Weilenmann, U.
•
Wolff, B.
Abstract
The VLT mid-infrared imager and spectrometer VISIR returns to science operations following an extended upgrade period. Among the most important modifications are: the imaging and spectroscopic detectors have been replaced with larger AQUARIUS (1024 by 1024 pixel) detector arrays; the N-band low-resolution grating has been exchanged; and support is now provided for precipitable water vapour monitoring, in order to select the best observing conditions. The AQUARIUS detectors stem from a development for very low background applications which result in excess noise under ground-based conditions. A series of interventions was needed to find a scheme that effectively exploits these detectors for ground-based use, involving the implementation of faster chopping. VISIR has been returned to service at the VLT with enhanced capabilities.
Volume
159
Start page
15
Issn Identifier
0722-6691
Ads BibCode
2015Msngr.159...15K
Rights
open.access
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