HighSpec: a high-resolution spectrograph for the MAST telescope array

Yahel Sofer Rimalt; Sagi Ben-Ami; Eran Ofek; Na'ama Hallakoun; Ido Irani; Oren Ironi; Jani Achren; Alex Bichkovsky; Arie Blumenzweig; Ofir Hershko; Hanindyo Kuncarayakti; Seppo Mattila; Tsevi Mazeh; Gleb Mikhnevich; David Polishook; Ofer Yaron

doi:10.1117/12.3020206

18 July 2024 HighSpec: a high-resolution spectrograph for the MAST telescope array

Yahel Sofer Rimalt, Sagi Ben-Ami, Eran Ofek, Na'ama Hallakoun, Ido Irani, Oren Ironi, Jani Achren, Alex Bichkovsky, Arie Blumenzweig, Ofir Hershko, Hanindyo Kuncarayakti, Seppo Mattila, Tsevi Mazeh, Gleb Mikhnevich, David Polishook, Ofer Yaron

Author Affiliations +

Proceedings Volume 13096, Ground-based and Airborne Instrumentation for Astronomy X; 130968V (2024) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.3020206
Event: SPIE Astronomical Telescopes + Instrumentation, 2024, Yokohama, Japan

Conference Poster

Abstract

We present the updated design of HighSpec, a high-resolution R ∼ 20, 000 spectrograph designed for the Multi Aperture Spectroscopic Telescope (MAST). HighSpec offers three observing modes centered at the Ca II H&K, Mgb triplet, and Hα lines. Each mode is supported by a highly optimized ion-etched grating, contributing to an instrument exceptional peak efficiency of ≳ 85% for the two latter bands (≳ 55% for the Ca II H&K band). Optimizing throughput over wavelength coverage (Δλ = 10−17 nm), HighSpec enables the precise measurement of spectral lines from faint targets. This approach is especially relevant for stellar object studies, specifically of WDs, which are intrinsically faint and have few spectroscopic lines. Each observing mode was tailored to target spectral features essential for WD research. Its integration with MAST, an array of 20 custom-designed telescopes that can function as a single large telescope (equivalent to a 2.7m telescope in collecting area) or multiplexing over the entire sky, provides unique adaptability for extensive and effective spectroscopic campaigns. Currently in its final assembly and testing stages, HighSpec’s on-sky commissioning is scheduled for 2025.

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Yahel Sofer Rimalt, Sagi Ben-Ami, Eran Ofek, Na'ama Hallakoun, Ido Irani, Oren Ironi, Jani Achren, Alex Bichkovsky, Arie Blumenzweig, Ofir Hershko, Hanindyo Kuncarayakti, Seppo Mattila, Tsevi Mazeh, Gleb Mikhnevich, David Polishook, and Ofer Yaron "HighSpec: a high-resolution spectrograph for the MAST telescope array", Proc. SPIE 13096, Ground-based and Airborne Instrumentation for Astronomy X, 130968V (18 July 2024); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.3020206

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