The Gemini South MCAO laser guide star facility: Getting ready for first light

Céline D'Orgeville*, Felipe Daruich, Gustavo Arriagada, Matthieu Bec, Maxime Boccas, Stacy Bombino, Chris Carter, Chas Cavedoni, Fabian Collao, Paul Collins, Eric James, Stan Karewicz, Manuel Lazo, Diego Maltes, Ron Mouser, Gabriel Perez, François Rigaut, Roberto Rojas, Mike Sheehan, Gelys TranchoVicente Vergara, Tomislav Vucina

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

21 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

The Gemini Observatory is in the final integration and test phase for its Multi-Conjugate Adaptive Optics (MCAO) project at the Gemini South 8-meter telescope atop Cerro Pachón, Chile. This paper presents an overview and status of the laser-side of the MCAO project in general and its Beam Transfer Optics (BTO), Laser Launch Telescope (LLT) and Safety Systems in particular. We review the commonalities and differences between the Gemini North Laser Guide Star (LGS) facility producing one LGS with a 10W-class laser, and its southern sibling producing five LGS with a 50W-class laser. We also highlight the modifications brought to the initial Gemini South LGS facility design based on lessons learned over 3 years of LGS operations in Hawaii. Finally, current integration and test results of the BTO and on-sky LLT performance are presented. Laser first light is expected in early 2009.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationAdaptive Optics Systems
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2008
Externally publishedYes
EventAdaptive Optics Systems - Marseille, France
Duration: 23 Jun 200826 Jun 2008

Publication series

NameProceedings of SPIE - The International Society for Optical Engineering
Volume7015
ISSN (Print)0277-786X

Conference

ConferenceAdaptive Optics Systems
Country/TerritoryFrance
CityMarseille
Period23/06/0826/06/08

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