KEYWORDS: Adaptive optics, Education and training, Machine learning, Control systems, Wavefront sensors, Model based design, Data modeling, Cameras, Computer simulations, Spatial light modulators
Direct imaging of Earth-like exoplanets is one of the most prominent scientific drivers of the next generation of ground-based telescopes. Typically, Earth-like exoplanets are located at small angular separations from their host stars, making their detection difficult. Consequently, the adaptive optics (AO) system’s control algorithm must be carefully designed to distinguish the exoplanet from the residual light produced by the host star. A promising avenue of research to improve AO control builds on data-driven control methods, such as reinforcement learning (RL). RL is an active branch of the machine learning research field, where control of a system is learned through interaction with the environment. Thus, RL can be seen as an automated approach to AO control, where its usage is entirely a turnkey operation. In particular, model-based RL has been shown to cope with temporal and misregistration errors. Similarly, it has been demonstrated to adapt to nonlinear wavefront sensing while being efficient in training and execution. In this work, we implement and adapt an RL method called policy optimization for AO (PO4AO) to the GPU-based high-order adaptive optics testbench (GHOST) test bench at ESO headquarters, where we demonstrate a strong performance of the method in a laboratory environment. Our implementation allows the training to be performed parallel to inference, which is crucial for on-sky operation. In particular, we study the predictive and self-calibrating aspects of the method. The new implementation on GHOST running PyTorch introduces only around 700 μs of in addition to hardware, pipeline, and Python interface latency. We open-source well-documented code for the implementation and specify the requirements for the RTC pipeline. We also discuss the important hyperparameters of the method and how they affect the method. Further, the paper discusses the source of the latency and the possible paths for a lower latency implementation.
European Southern Observatory (ESO)’s Very Large Telescope Interferometer (VLTI), Paranal, Chile, is one of the most proficient observatories in the world for high angular resolution astronomy. It has hosted several interferometric instruments operating in various bandwidths in the infrared. As a result, the VLTI has yielded countless discoveries and technological breakthroughs. We propose to ESO a new concept for a visitor instrument for the VLTI: Asgard. It is an instrumental suite comprised of four natively collaborating instruments: High-Efficiency Multiaxial Do-it ALL Recombiner (HEIMDALLR), an all-in-one instrument performing both fringe tracking and stellar interferometry with the same optics; Baldr, a Strehl optimizer; Beam-combination Instrument for studying the Formation and fundamental paRameters of Stars and planeTary systems (BIFROST), a combiner whose main science case is studying the formation processes and properties of stellar and planetary systems; and Nulling Observations of dusT and planeTs (NOTT), a nulling interferometer dedicated to imaging young nearby planetary systems in the L band. The overlap between the science cases across different spectral bands yields the idea of making the instruments complementary to deliver sensitivity and accuracy from the J to L bands. Asgard is to be set on the former AMBER optical table. Its control architecture is a hybrid between custom and ESO-compliant developments to benefit from the flexibility offered to a visitor instrument and foresee a deeper long-term integration into VLTI for an opening to the community.
An accurate metrology system is required to stabilize the differential path lengths in the Nulling Interferometry Cryogenic Experiment (nice) to within 0.45nm peak-to-peak to achieve broadband mid-infrared nulls with long exposure times, which are required for potential future space missions, such as the Large Interferometer for Exoplanets (life) mission, that aim to directly image and characterize temperate terrestrial exoplanets. For this purpose, a differential heterodyne laser distance metrology is developed to enable differential path length measurements that are stable over multiple days with sub-nanometer accuracy at a bandwidth of 1 kHz. The system aims to solve several challenges that arise in the context of NICE, such as the need for long-term stability, the high intensity attenuation through the NICE beam path, and the requirement that the metrology be able to deliver low-latency feedback for closed-loop operation to compensate vibrations and drifts of the nulling testbed. The metrology uses a 633nm HeNe laser and operates at ambient temperature and pressure with a beat frequency of 10 kHz, which is generated by acousto-optic modulators. To improve long-term stability, the compact optical layout is optimized for low susceptibility to temperature variations. Over periods of 2 s, the intrinsic instability of the metrology is ≈ 80pm RMS when sampling at 10 kHz, and it is stable to within ≈ 0.5nm peak-to-peak for 2 hours. When correcting the distance measurements for the temperature of the metrology board, it is stable to within ≈ 1nm peak-to-peak for 14 hours. The metrology fulfils the stability and bandwidth requirements for nice for a duration of at least 2 hours. To achieve stability over even longer time periods, the metrology will later be placed in a temperature-controlled vacuum environment.
ERIS will extend and enhance the fundamental diffraction limited imaging and spectroscopy capability of the VLT. It combines a 1-5um imaging camera with high contrast capabilities, a 1-2.5um integral field spectrograph, and an adaptive optics system able to work with both LGS and NGS. The instrument has outstanding potential for resolved studies of high redshift galaxies, astrometry in the Galactic Centre, and characterisation of exoplanets. Following an introduction to the instrument, this contribution will present the first results from commissioning - adaptive optics performance, spectral resolution, astrometric precision, and contrast at small angular separations - in terms of the instrument's science drivers and applications.
The Mid-Infrared ELT Imager and Spectrograph (METIS) is one of the first generation science instruments on ESO's 39m Extremely Large Telescope (ELT). METIS will provide diffraction-limited imaging and medium resolution slit-spectroscopy from 3 – 13 microns (L, M, and N bands), as well as high resolution (R ~ 100,000) integral field spectroscopy from 2.9 – 5.3 microns. After passing its preliminary design review (PDR) in May 2019, and the final design review (FDR) of its optical system in June 2021, METIS is now preparing for the FDR of its entire system in the fall of 2022, while the procurements of many optical components have already started. First light at the telescope is expected in 2028, after a comprehensive assembly integration and test phase. We describe the conceptual setup of METIS, its key functional components, and the resulting observing modes. Last but not least, we present the expected sensitivity, adaptive optics, and high contrast imaging performance.
The warm calibration unit (WCU) is one of the subsystems of the future METIS instrument on the Extremely Large Telescope (ELT). Operating at room temperature, the WCU is mounted above the main cryostat of METIS. It will be employed as a calibration reference for science observations, as well as for verification and alignment purposes during the AIT phase. The WCU is designed and constructed at the University of Cologne, one of the partner in the METIS consortium. WCU recently went through a successful Optics Long Lead Items Review by ESO. Now, the WCU is entering the last phase of the project, the Final Design Review (FDR). In this paper, we present the current status of the WCU design and summarize the mechanical and system engineering work. We describe the design of the hexapod formed by six manually adjustable links and its interfaces with the METIS cryostat together with the CFRP-based optical bench and Invar-based optical mounts. Lab prototyping results of one actuator under a nominal load of 5 kN confirms the achievable high linear resolution (20 µm). We present the status of the WCU laser cabinet. We discuss the lastest progress in the laboratory testing of some WCU functionalities, such as the fibre-fed monochromatic sources for the spectral calibration of the LM-Spectrograph of METIS, and the spatial calibration sources using the integrating sphere. We detail the activities foreseen until FDR together with the preparation of the sub-system MAIT work.
We present the final design of the cryostat of the Mid-infrared ELT Imager and Spectrograph (METIS) instrument to be operated at ESO’s Extremely Large Telescope (ELT). The cryostat provides the cold optics of the instrument with the required cryo-vacuum environment. The radiation shields of the cryostat are cooled with liquid nitrogen and the cold optics is cooled via pulse-tube coolers down to temperatures between 35 K and 70K. The cold-warm interface is provided with G10 blades that build together with the top part of the cryostat vessel the structural interface to the cold optics, the warm support structure and the warm calibration source. The cryostat development is now complete and the instrument Final Design Review is scheduled for November 2022. We present in this paper the final design status, the key design considerations and the cooling concept.
METIS, the Mid-infrared Imager and Spectrograph for the Extremely Large Telescope (ELT), is one of the three first generation science instruments and about to complete its final design phase [1]. The Imager sub-system provides diffraction-limited imaging capabilities and low-resolution grism-spectroscopy in two channels: one covers the atmospheric LM bands with a field of view of 11x11 arcsec, and the second covers the N band, with a field of view of 14x14 arcsec. Both channels have a common collimator and a dichroic beam splitter dividing the light into two dedicated cameras and the corresponding detectors. In addition, the Imager provides a precise pupil re-imaging implementation allowing the positioning of high-contrast imaging masks for coronagraphic applications. The two channels are equipped with a HAWAII-2RG detector for LM-band and a GeoSnap detector for the N-band. We present the final optical design of the Imager in a summary, as well as the cryo-mechanical concept. The mechanical design gives an overview of the general design aspects and the analyses that demonstrate the approach how to deal with demanding stability and alignment requirements for high-contrast imaging. It further focuses on the design of individual units as e.g., on the GeoSnap detector mount and on the pupil re-imager. In addition, we exemplarily outline some of the key alignment and verification tasks, essential to guarantee the performance of the Imager.
ERIS (Enhanced Resolution Imager and Spectrograph) is a new adaptive optics instrument installed at the Cassegrain focus of the VLT-UT4 telescope at the Paranal Observatory in Chile. ERIS consists of two near infrared instruments: SPIFFIER, an integral field unit (IFU) spectrograph covering J to K bands, and NIX, an imager covering J to M bands. ERIS has an adaptive optics system able to work with both LGS and NGS. The Assembly Integration Verification (AIV) phase of ERIS at the Paranal Observatory was carried out starting in December 2021, followed by several commissioning runs in 2022. This contribution will describe the first preliminary results of the on-sky performance of ERIS during its commissioning and the future perspectives based on the preliminary scientific results.
METIS, the Mid-infrared E-ELT Imager and Spectrometer, is being designed for the Extremely Large Telescope (ELT) and is currently expected to arrive at the telescope early 2028. As part of the design of the instrument, we are developing the Assembly, Integration and Verification strategy for METIS. Although the sub-systems will be largely qualified at their respective institutes, only once all components come together at system level will it be possible to verify all the interfaces, full system thermal characteristics and full instrument performance. Although one of the smaller instruments for the ELT, the fully integrated METIS will still be more than 7 meters high, with a footprint in excess of 15 square meters and a weight of the order of 10 tons. This paper describes the system level assembly, integration and verification of METIS, both in Europe as well as once delivered to the telescope.
The GPU-based High-order adaptive OpticS Testbench (GHOST) at the European Southern Observatory (ESO) is a new 2-stage extreme adaptive optics (XAO) testbench at ESO. The GHOST is designed to investigate and evaluate new control methods (machine learning, predictive control) for XAO which will be required for instruments such as the Planetary Camera and Spectrograph of ESOs Extremely Large Telescope. The first stage corrections are performed in simulation, with the residual wavefront error at each iteration saved. The residual wavefront errors from the first stage are then injected into the GHOST using a spatial light modulator. The second stage correction is made with a Boston Michromachines Corporation 492 actuator deformable mirror and a pyramid wavefront sensor. The flexibility of the bench also opens it up to other applications, one such application is investigating the flip-flop modulation method for the pyramid wavefront sensor.
Hi-5 is the L’-band (3.5-4.0 μm) high-contrast imager of Asgard, an instrument suite in preparation for the visitor focus of the VLTI. The system is optimized for high-contrast and high-sensitivity imaging within the diffraction limit of a single UT/AT telescope. It is designed as a double-Bracewell nulling instrument producing spectrally-dispersed (R=20, 400, or 2000) complementary nulling outputs and simultaneous photometric outputs for self-calibration purposes. In this paper, we present an update of the project with a particular focus on the overall architecture, opto-mechanical design of the warm and cold optics, injection system, and development of the photonic beam combiner. The key science projects are to survey (i) nearby young planetary systems near the snow line, where most giant planets are expected to be formed, and (2) nearby main sequence stars near the habitable zone where exozodiacal dust that may hinder the detection of Earth-like planets. We present an update of the expected instrumental performance based on full end-to-end simulations using the new GRAVITY+ specifications of the VLTI and the latest planet formation models.
The Large Interferometer For Exoplanets (LIFE) is an envisioned nulling interferometry space mission to characterize the atmospheres of terrestrial exoplanets in the mid-infrared (MIR) wavelength range (∼4-18.5 μm.) The star-to-planet flux contrast for an Earth-twin exoplanet is ≈ 107 at these wavelengths. Previous studies have shown that a “raw” null-depth of 105 provided by the interferometer is sufficient as long as the residual starlight can be removed through signal modulation, phase-chopping and data post processing. Two main technological challenges for a nulling interferometer are instrument stability and sensitivity. Several test-benches were built for LIFE’s ancestral mission concepts DARWIN and TPF-I. Operating at ambient conditions, they demonstrated excellent stability and suppressed the artificial starlight by up to 106 (depending on the spectral bandpass). However, instrument sensitivity/throughput for astronomical sources can not be characterized at background dominated ambient conditions. Cooling the instruments to cryogenic conditions reduces the thermal background and enables sensitivity driven instrument characterization. The Nulling Interferometer Cryogenic Experiment (NICE) is a single Bracewell nulling interferometer test-bench for LIFE. The ultimate aim of this test-bench is to attain a sensitivity level that demonstrates the feasibility of detecting an Earth-twin around a Sun-like star at 10 pc with a spectral bandwidth of 10% at 10 μm. The development of NICE is divided into two phases, the warm and cold phase. The warm phase focuses on the alignment of the optical components and maintaining their position and angular stability to achieve a null depth of 10−5 − 10−6 at 4 μm over several hours. In the cold phase, NICE will be cooled to 15 K to suppress the thermal background, and the throughput and sensitivity of the instrument will be characterized. This paper describes the development plan of NICE and presents the optical layout of the NICE warm phase. It also presents the preliminary null-depth reached by the NICE warm phase and the residual alignment errors in the system.
We present results on the laboratory characterization of the grating vector apodizing phase plate (gvAPP) coronagraph that will be included in the upcoming instrument enhanced resolution imager and spectrograph (ERIS) at the VLT. ERIS will include a 1 to 5 μm adaptive-optics-fed imager, NIX, that will greatly improve the capability of the VLT to perform high-contrast imaging of exoplanets especially in the 3 to 5 μm wavelength range. The gvAPP, one of the coronagraphs in the NIX suite, is a pupil plane coronagraph that uses a thin film of patterned liquid crystals to create two images of a star with a D-shaped dark hole on either side. The gvAPP is manufactured using an innovative direct-write system that produces precise patterns of liquid crystals. We utilized the upgraded infrared cryogenic test bench run by the Exoplanets and Habitability Group at ETH Zurich to measure the morphology of the gvAPP PSF and to test the accuracy of the liquid crystal manufacturing technique in the lab for the first time at contrast levels of ∼10 − 5. We find that the gvAPP can reach raw contrasts below ∼10 − 5 between ∼10 and 13 λ / D. This contrast upper limit translates to a writing accuracy of the orientation of the liquid crystal’s fast axis of better than 0.3 deg for the spatial frequencies corresponding to those separations. This is a sufficient accuracy such that the gvAPP will not be the limiting factor in achieving the required contrasts to image exoplanets.
The Mid-infrared ELT Imager and Spectrograph (METIS) is one of the three first-generation instruments on the Extremely Large Telescope (ELT). It will provide 20 instrument configurations for direct and high-contrast imaging, medium and high resolution spectroscopy in the wavelength range of 3 − 13μ. The straylight will affect the image contrast and objects recognition thus influencing the final instrument performance. For this reason it should be taken into account and accurately modeled at the design stage. In the present study we consider straylight from the following sources: surface roughness and defects of the optical surfaces, multiple reflections and diffraction, which will all influence the instrument performance. We estimate their influence using a bottom-up modelling approach at the system level and derive the requirements for some critical parameters. Using empirical and analytical models and performing non-sequential raytracing we demonstrate that the target straylight level can be reached in the current design with reasonable specifications on the optical components.
High-contrast optical stellar interferometry generally refers to instruments able to detect circumstellar emission at least a few hundred times fainter than the host star at high-angular resolution (typically within a few λ/D). While such contrast levels have been enabled by classical modal-filtered interferometric instruments such as VLTI/PIONIER, CHARA/FLUOR, and CHARA/MIRC the development of instruments able to filter out the stellar light has significantly pushed this limit, either by nulling interferometry for on-axis observations (e.g., PFN, LBTI, GLINT) or by off-axis classical interferometry with VLTI/GRAVITY. Achieving such high contrast levels at small angular separation was made possible thanks to significant developments in technology (e.g., adaptive optics, integrated optics), data acquisition (e.g., fringe tracking, phase chopping), and data reduction techniques (e.g., nulling self-calibration). In this paper, we review the current status of high-contrast optical stellar interferometry and present its key scientific results. We then present ongoing activities to improve current ground-based interferometric facilities for high-contrast imaging (e.g., Hi-5/VIKING/BIFROST of the ASGARD instrument suite, GRAVITY+) and the scientific milestones that they would be able to achieve. Finally, we discuss the long-term future of high-contrast stellar interferometry and, in particular, ambitious science cases that would be enabled by space interferometry (e.g., LIFE, space-PFI) and large-scale ground-based projects (PFI).
We present the current design status of the cryostat of the Mid-infrared ELT Imager and Spectrograph (METIS) instrument to be operated at ESO’s Extremely Large Telescope (ELT). The cryostat provides the cold optics of the instrument with the required cryo-vacuum environment. The radiation shields of the cryostat are cooled with liquid nitrogen and the cold optics is cooled via pulse-tube coolers down to temperatures around 35 K. The cold-warm interface is provided with G10 blades that build together with the top part of the cryostat vessel the structural interface to the cold optics, the warm support structure and the warm calibration source. The cryostat development is currently in its final design phase which is planned to conclude in summer 2022. We present in this paper the current design status, the key design considerations and the cooling concept.
The warm calibration unit (WCU) is one subsystem of the future METIS instrument on the European Extremely Large Telescope (E-ELT). Operating at daytime temperature, the WCU is mounted above the main cryostat of METIS and will be employed as calibration reference for science observations, as well as for verification and alignment purposes during the AIT phase. The WCU is designed and constructed at the University of Cologne, partner in the METIS consortium. The WCU, together with the full METIS instrument, went recently through a successful preliminary design review (PDR) phase at ESO and is entering now the Phase C of the project. In this paper, we present the current status of the WCU and summarize the mostly mechanical and optical engineering work. We adopted a hexapod unit to interface with the METIS cryostat and a CFRP-based optical bench to optimally cope with alignment flexure. We develop the case for fiber-fed laser sources feeding the integrating sphere for spectral calibration of the LM-Spectrograph of METIS. We detail the activity foreseen for Phase C including the optical tolerances analysis, the eigenfrequency and earthquake analysis and a preparation of the sub-system MAIT work, finishing the paper with a short overview of the WCU future plans.
Large astronomical instruments are often built by consortia of research institutes and universities. The different locations of the various teams, the common interests and shared responsibilities of the partner organizations, and the science driven approach of these projects bring unique challenges to conduct systems engineering efficiently. In this paper we report our positive experience within the METIS consortium that is building one of the three first-generation instruments for the ESO ELT. We developed a novel and fully collaborative systems engineering approach that decentralizes the responsibilities across discipline experts and subsystem providers using a webbased software tool to engineer requirements and interfaces. We discuss the problems that forced us to develop this new approach, describe the new processes and tools, and discuss the benefits, risks, and lessons learned.
A space-based mid-infrared nulling interferometer is one of the most promising concepts to achieve one of the long-term goals of exoplanet science - the characterization of many terrestrial planets and the assessment of their potential habitability. In preparation of a potential future mission, we are continuing the efforts of previous mission concepts and their associated nulling testbeds that operated at ambient conditions. While they successfully proved that the required deep null can be achieved and stabilised over many hours, we are building a cryogenically cooled nulling interferometer testbed working in the potential mission wavelength range (4 - 18 µm) and with comparable sensitivity in order to demonstrate the measurement concept at fluxes similar to the astronomical targets. Many new challenges arise from this goal such as the need to optimize the setup for throughput and symmetry in order to avoid performance losses when exposed to unpolarized and broadband light. In this paper we present first concepts and theoretical results of a fully symmetric setup.
With the advent of 30- to 40-m class ground-based telescopes in the mid-2020s, direct imaging of exoplanets is bound to take a new major leap. Among the approved projects, the Mid-infrared Extremely Large Telescope (ELT) Imager and Spectrograph (METIS) instrument for the ELT holds a prominent spot; by observing in the mid-infrared regime, it will be perfectly suited to study a variety of exoplanets and protoplanetary disks around nearby stars. Equipped with two of the most advanced coronagraphs, the vortex coronagraph and the apodizing phase plate, METIS will provide high-contrast imaging (HCI) in L-, M- and N-bands, and a combination of high-resolution spectroscopy and HCI in L- and M-bands. We present the expected HCI performance of the METIS instrument, considering realistic adaptive optics residuals, and investigate the effect of the main instrumental errors. The most important sources of degradation are identified and realistic sensitivity limits in terms of planet/star contrast are derived.
ERIS is a diffraction limited thermal infrared imager and spectrograph for the Very Large Telescope UT4. One of the science cases for ERIS is the detection and characterization of circumstellar structures and exoplanets around bright stars that are typically much fainter than the stellar diffraction halo. Enhanced sensitivity is provided through the combination of (i) suppression of the diffraction halo of the target star using coronagraphs, and (ii) removal of any residual diffraction structure through focal plane wavefront sensing and subsequent active correction. In this paper we present the two coronagraphs used for diffraction suppression and enabling high contrast imaging in ERIS.
ERIS is an instrument that will both extend and enhance the fundamental diffraction limited imaging and spectroscopy capability for the VLT. It will replace two instruments that are now being maintained beyond their operational lifetimes, combine their functionality on a single focus, provide a new wavefront sensing module that makes use of the facility Adaptive Optics System, and considerably improve their performance. The instrument will be competitive with respect to JWST in several regimes, and has outstanding potential for studies of the Galactic Center, exoplanets, and high redshift galaxies. ERIS had its final design review in 2017, and is expected to be on sky in 2020. This contribution describes the instrument concept, outlines its expected performance, and highlights where it will most excel.
The Mid-Infrared ELT Imager and Spectrograph (METIS) is one of three first light instruments on the ELT. It will provide high-contrast imaging and medium resolution, slit-spectroscopy from 3 – 19um, as well as high resolution (R ~ 100,000) integral field spectroscopy from 2.9-5.3µm. All modes observe at the diffraction limit of the ELT, by means of adaptive optics, yielding angular resolutions of a few tens of milliarcseconds. The range of METIS science is broad, from Solar System objects to active galactic nuclei (AGN). We will present an update on the main science drivers for METIS: circum-stellar disks and exoplanets. The METIS project is now in full steam, approaching its preliminary design review (PDR) in 2018. In this paper we will present the current status of its optical, mechanical and thermal design as well as operational aspects. We will also discuss the challenges of building an instrument for the ELT, and the required technologies.
We present the preliminary design of the calibration unit of the future E-ELT instrument METIS. This independent subunit is mounted externally to the main cryostat of METIS and will function both as calibration reference for science observations, as well as verification and alignment tool during the AIT phase. In this paper, we focus on describing its preliminary layout and foreseen functionalities, based on the performance requirements defined at system level and the constraints imposed by warm IR background. We discuss the advantage of employing an integrating sphere as common radiation emitter, leading to a novel and versatile design, where the source’s spatio-spectral properties can be varied with high fidelity and repeatability. By combining only few tuneable sources and mechanisms we show how a large instrument such as METIS can be calibrated and tested, without the need of a complex cold calibration unit.
METIS is the Mid-infrared Extremely large Telescope Imager and Spectrograph, one of the first generation instruments of ESO’s 39m ELT. All scientific observing modes of METIS require adaptive optics (AO) correction close to the diffraction limit. Demanding constraints are introduced by the foreseen coronagraphy modes, which require highest angular resolution and PSF stability. Further design drivers for METIS and its AO system are imposed by the wavelength regime: observations in the thermal infrared require an elaborate thermal, baffling and masking concept. METIS will be equipped with a Single-Conjugate Adaptive Optics (SCAO) system. An integral part of the instrument is the SCAO module. It will host a pyramid type wavefront sensor, operating in the near-IR and located inside the cryogenic environment of the METIS instrument. The wavefront control loop as well as secondary control tasks will be realized within the AO Control System, as part of the instrument. Its main actuators will be the adaptive quaternary mirror and the field stabilization mirror of the ELT. In this paper we report on the phase B design work for the METIS SCAO system; the opto-mechanical design of the SCAO module as well as the control loop concepts and analyses. Simulations were carried out to address a number of important aspects, such as the impact of the fragmented pupil of the ELT on wavefront reconstruction. The trade-off that led to the decision for a pyramid wavefront sensor will be explained, as well as the additional control tasks such as pupil stabilization and compensation of non-common path aberrations.
We present the design, capabilities and applications of a cryogenic test facility for astronomical instrumentation located at ETH Zurich, Switzerland. This facility was designed, built, and commissioned with the purpose to support opto-mechanical performance measurements of cryo-mechanisms for astronomical instruments. In particular, the facility was developed initially to test the opto-mechanical stability and repeatability of the wheel-mechanisms for the ERIS/VLT instrument that are developed in house. However, the facility has a generic application portfolio and can be used for other development projects as well. The unique setup allows optical access from the warm end with short working distance to the cold elements of only a few millimeters. Electrical, mechanical, and liquid feedthroughs provide a flexible infrastructure for a large variety of thermal, mechanical, electrical and optical tests. To provide maximum mechanical stability, the cooling is provided by a low vibration pulse tube cooler that cools the facility down to approximately 8 K.
One of the long-term goals of exoplanet science is the (atmospheric) characterization of a large sample (>100) of terrestrial planets to assess their potential habitability and overall diversity. Hence, it is crucial to quantitatively evaluate and compare the scientific return of various mission concepts. Here we discuss the exoplanet yield of a space-based mid-infrared (MIR) nulling interferometer. We use Monte-Carlo simulations, based on the observed planet population statistics from the Kepler mission, to quantify the number and properties of detectable exoplanets (incl. potentially habitable planets) and we compare the results to those for a large aperture optical/NIR space telescope. We investigate how changes in the underlying technical assumptions (sensitivity and spatial resolution) impact the results and discuss scientific aspects that influence the choice for the wavelength coverage and spectral resolution. Finally, we discuss the advantages of detecting exoplanets at MIR wavelengths, summarize the current status of some key technologies, and describe what is needed in terms of further technology development to pave the road for a space-based MIR nulling interferometer for exoplanet science.
We present results from a cryogenic characterization of the grating vector Apodizing Phase Plate (gvAPP) coro- nagraph that will be used in the upcoming instrument ERIS (Enhanced Resolution Imager and Spectrograph) at the VLT. ERIS consists of a 1-5 μm imager (NIX) and a 1 2.5 μm integral field spectrograph (SPIFFIER), both fed by the Adaptive Optics Facility of UT4 to yield diffraction-limited spatial resolution. A gvAPP coronagraph will be included in the NIX imager to enable high-contrast imaging observations, which will be particularly powerful for the direct imaging of exoplanets at L and M bands (~3-5 μm) and will compliment the current capabilities of VLT/SPHERE and surpass the capabilities of VLT/NACO. We utilize the near-infrared test bench of the Star and Planet Formation group at ETH Zurich to measure key properties of the gvAPP coronagraph at its operating wavelengths and under the vacuum/cryogenic (~70 K) conditions of the future ERIS instrument.
We present a solution to the challenges of interfacing the ELT’s METIS to the telescope using a steerable hexapod structure. To guide the architectural choices, lumped physical models were derived from inverse kinematics in order to address the load distribution in each arm. Complete FE Analysis is carried on the optimal solutions of these models. The hexapod arms, which are high precision heavy duty linear actuators enduring forces in the excess of 30 tons, are designed using standard components whenever possible. An overall fully functional support structure design, satisfying the ESO/ELT and METIS requirements, is described.
We present the design and measured performance of the Aperture Wheel and the Pupil and Filter Wheel mechanisms for the NIX camera of the VLT/ERIS instrument. Both mechanisms were developed for high opto-mechanical precision and stability while operating at 70 K. We summarise the design constraints and considerations. Further, we have developed a dedicated cryo-test facility to allow measuring the position repeatability under nominal operational conditions. We demonstrate that the wheel mechanisms perform as designed and provide the measurement methodology and results of the opto-mechanical tolerances.
METIS is one the first three instruments on the E-ELT. Apart from diffraction limited imaging, METIS will provide coronagraphy and medium resolution slit spectroscopy over the 3 – 19μm range, as well as high resolution (R ~ 100,000) integral field spectroscopy from 2.9 – 5.3μm, including a mode with extended instantaneous wavelength coverage. The unique combination of these observing capabilities, makes METIS the ideal instrument for the study of circumstellar disks and exoplanets, among many other science areas. In this paper we provide an update of the relevant science drivers, the METIS observing modes, the status of the simulator and the data analysis. We discuss the preliminary design of the optical system, which is driven by the need to calibrate observations at thermal IR wavelengths on a six-mirror ELT. We present the expected adaptive optics performance and the measures taken to enable high contrast imaging. We describe the opto-mechanical system, the location of METIS on the Nasmyth instrument platform, and conclude with an update on critical subsystem components, such as the immersed grating and the focal plane detectors. In summary, the work on METIS has taken off well and is on track for first light in 2025.
ERIS will be the next-generation AO facility on the VLT, combining the heritage of NACO imaging, with the spectroscopic capabilities of an upgraded SINFONI. Here we report on the all-new NIX imager that will deliver diffraction-limited imaging from the J to M band. The instrument will be equipped with both Apodizing Phase Plates and Sparse Aperture Masks to provide high-angular resolution imagery, especially suited for exoplanet imaging and characterization. This paper provides detail on the instrument’s design and how it is suited to address a broad range of science cases, from detailed studies of the galactic centre at the highest resolutions, to studying detailed resolved stellar populations.
GRAVITY is a second generation near-infrared VLTI instrument that will combine the light of the four unit or four auxiliary telescopes of the ESO Paranal observatory in Chile. The major science goals are the observation of objects in close orbit around, or spiraling into the black hole in the Galactic center with unrivaled sensitivity and angular resolution as well as studies of young stellar objects and evolved stars. In order to cancel out the effect of atmospheric turbulence and to be able to see beyond dusty layers, it needs infrared wave-front sensors when operating with the unit telescopes. Therefore GRAVITY consists of the Beam Combiner Instrument (BCI) located in the VLTI laboratory and a wave-front sensor in each unit telescope Coudé room, thus aptly named Coudé Infrared Adaptive Optics (CIAO). This paper describes the CIAO design, assembly, integration and verification at the Paranal observatory.
The Mid-Infrared Instrument (MIRI) Medium Resolution Spectrometer (MRS) is the only mid-IR Integral Field Spectrometer on board James Webb Space Telescope. The complexity of the MRS requires a very specialized pipeline, with some specific steps not present in other pipelines of JWST instruments, such as fringe corrections and wavelength offsets, with different algorithms for point source or extended source data. The MRS pipeline has also two different variants: the baseline pipeline, optimized for most foreseen science cases, and the optimal pipeline, where extra steps will be needed for specific science cases. This paper provides a comprehensive description of the MRS Calibration Pipeline from uncalibrated slope images to final scientific products, with brief descriptions of its algorithms, input and output data, and the accessory data and calibration data products necessary to run the pipeline.
GRAVITY, a second generation instrument for the Very Large Telescope Interferometer (VLTI), will provide an astrometric precision of order 10 micro-arcseconds, an imaging resolution of 4 milli-arcseconds, and low/medium resolution spectro-interferometry. These improvements to the VLTI represent a major upgrade to its current infrared interferometric capabilities, allowing detailed study of obscured environments (e.g. the Galactic Center, young dusty planet-forming disks, dense stellar cores, AGN, etc...). Crucial to the final performance of GRAVITY, the Coudé IR Adaptive Optics (CIAO) system will correct for the effects of the atmosphere at each of the VLT Unit Telescopes. CIAO consists of four new infrared Shack-Hartmann wavefront sensors (WFS) and associated real-time computers/software which will provide infrared wavefront sensing from 1.45-2.45 microns, allowing AO corrections even in regions where optically bright reference sources are scarce. We present here the latest progress on the GRAVITY wavefront sensors. We describe the adaptation and testing of a light-weight version of the ESO Standard Platform for Adaptive optics Real Time Applications (SPARTA-Light) software architecture to the needs of GRAVITY. We also describe the latest integration and test milestones for construction of the initial wave front sensor.
The Enhanced Resolution Imager and Spectrograph (ERIS) is the next-generation adaptive optics near-IR imager and
spectrograph for the Cassegrain focus of the Very Large Telescope (VLT) Unit Telescope 4, which will soon make full
use of the Adaptive Optics Facility (AOF). It is a high-Strehl AO-assisted instrument that will use the Deformable
Secondary Mirror (DSM) and the new Laser Guide Star Facility (4LGSF). The project has been approved for
construction and has entered its preliminary design phase. ERIS will be constructed in a collaboration including the Max-
Planck Institut für Extraterrestrische Physik, the Eidgenössische Technische Hochschule Zürich and the Osservatorio
Astrofisico di Arcetri and will offer 1 - 5 μm imaging and 1 - 2.5 μm integral field spectroscopic capabilities with a high
Strehl performance. Wavefront sensing can be carried out with an optical high-order NGS Pyramid wavefront sensor, or
with a single laser in either an optical low-order NGS mode, or with a near-IR low-order mode sensor. Due to its highly
sensitive visible wavefront sensor, and separate near-IR low-order mode, ERIS provides a large sky coverage with its 1’
patrol field radius that can even include AO stars embedded in dust-enshrouded environments. As such it will replace,
with a much improved single conjugated AO correction, the most scientifically important imaging modes offered by
NACO (diffraction limited imaging in the J to M bands, Sparse Aperture Masking and Apodizing Phase Plate (APP)
coronagraphy) and the integral field spectroscopy modes of SINFONI, whose instrumental module, SPIFFI, will be
upgraded and re-used in ERIS. As part of the SPIFFI upgrade a new higher resolution grating and a science detector
replacement are envisaged, as well as PLC driven motors. To accommodate ERIS at the Cassegrain focus, an extension
of the telescope back focal length is required, with modifications of the guider arm assembly. In this paper we report on
the status of the baseline design. We will also report on the main science goals of the instrument, ranging from exoplanet
detection and characterization to high redshift galaxy observations. We will also briefly describe the SINFONI-SPIFFI
upgrade strategy, which is part of the ERIS development plan and the overall project timeline.
MOONS is a new Multi-Object Optical and Near-infrared Spectrograph selected by ESO as a third generation
instrument for the Very Large Telescope (VLT). The grasp of the large collecting area offered by the VLT (8.2m
diameter), combined with the large multiplex and wavelength coverage (optical to near-IR: 0.8μm - 1.8μm) of MOONS
will provide the European astronomical community with a powerful, unique instrument able to pioneer a wide range of
Galactic, Extragalactic and Cosmological studies and provide crucial follow-up for major facilities such as Gaia,
VISTA, Euclid and LSST. MOONS has the observational power needed to unveil galaxy formation and evolution over
the entire history of the Universe, from stars in our Milky Way, through the redshift desert, and up to the epoch of very
first galaxies and re-ionization of the Universe at redshift z>8-9, just few million years after the Big Bang. On a
timescale of 5 years of observations, MOONS will provide high quality spectra for >3M stars in our Galaxy and the
local group, and for 1-2M galaxies at z>1 (SDSS-like survey), promising to revolutionise our understanding of the
Universe.
The baseline design consists of ~1000 fibers deployable over a field of view of ~500 square arcmin, the largest patrol
field offered by the Nasmyth focus at the VLT. The total wavelength coverage is 0.8μm-1.8μm and two resolution
modes: medium resolution and high resolution. In the medium resolution mode (R~4,000-6,000) the entire wavelength
range 0.8μm-1.8μm is observed simultaneously, while the high resolution mode covers simultaneously three selected
spectral regions: one around the CaII triplet (at R~8,000) to measure radial velocities, and two regions at R~20,000 one
in the J-band and one in the H-band, for detailed measurements of chemical abundances.
Roy van Boekel, Björn Benneke, Kevin Heng, Renyu Hu, Nikku Madhusudhan, Sascha Quanz, Yan Bétrémieux, Jeroen Bouwman, Guo Chen, Leen Decin, Remco de Kok, Adrian Glauser, Manuel Güdel, Peter Hauschildt, Thomas Henning, Sandra Jeffers, Sheng Jin, Lisa Kaltenegger, Franz Kerschbaum, Oliver Krause, Helmut Lammer, Armin Luntzer, Michael Meyer, Yamila Miguel, Christoph Mordasini, Roland Ottensamer, Theresa Rank-Lueftinger, Ansgar Reiners, Timo Reinhold, Hans Martin Schmid, Ignas Snellen, Daphne Stam, Zhao Sun, Bart Vandenbussche
We present EclipseSim, a radiometric model for exoplanet transit spectroscopy that allows easy exploration of
the fundamental performance limits of any space-based facility aiming to perform such observations. It includes
a library of stellar model atmosphere spectra and can either approximate exoplanet spectra by simplified models,
or use any theoretical or observed spectrum, to simulate observations. All calculations are done in a spectrally
resolved fashion and the contributions of the various fundamental noise sources are budgeted separately, allowing
easy assessment of the dominant noise sources, as a function of wavelength. We apply EclipseSim to the Exoplanet
Characterization Observatory (EChO), a proposed mission dedicated to exoplanet transit spectroscopy that is
currently in competition for the M3 launch slot of ESA’s cosmic vision programme. We show several case studies
on planets with sizes in the super-Earth to Jupiter range, and temperatures ranging from the temperate to the
≈1500K regime, demonstrating the power and versatility of EChO. EclipseSim is publicly available.*
MOONS is a new conceptual design for a Multi-Object Optical and Near-infrared Spectrograph for the Very Large
Telescope (VLT), selected by ESO for a Phase A study. The baseline design consists of ~1000 fibers deployable over a
field of view of ~500 square arcmin, the largest patrol field offered by the Nasmyth focus at the VLT. The total
wavelength coverage is 0.8μm-1.8μm and two resolution modes: medium resolution and high resolution. In the medium
resolution mode (R~4,000-6,000) the entire wavelength range 0.8μm-1.8μm is observed simultaneously, while the high
resolution mode covers simultaneously three selected spectral regions: one around the CaII triplet (at R~8,000) to
measure radial velocities, and two regions at R~20,000 one in the J-band and one in the H-band, for detailed
measurements of chemical abundances.
The grasp of the 8.2m Very Large Telescope (VLT) combined with the large multiplex and wavelength coverage of
MOONS – extending into the near-IR – will provide the observational power necessary to study galaxy formation and
evolution over the entire history of the Universe, from our Milky Way, through the redshift desert and up to the epoch
of re-ionization at z<8-9. At the same time, the high spectral resolution mode will allow astronomers to study chemical
abundances of stars in our Galaxy, in particular in the highly obscured regions of the Bulge, and provide the necessary
follow-up of the Gaia mission. Such characteristics and versatility make MOONS the long-awaited workhorse near-IR
MOS for the VLT, which will perfectly complement optical spectroscopy performed by FLAMES and VIMOS.
The Exoplanet Characterisation Observatory (EChO) is a medium class mission candidate within ESA's Cosmic Vision
2015-2025 program on space science. EChO will be equipped with a visible to infrared spectrometer covering the
wavelength range from 0.4 - 11 μm (goal: 16 μm) at a spectral resolving power between 30 and 300 in order to
characterize the atmospheres of known transiting extrasolar planets ranging from Hot Jupiters to Super Earths. In this
paper we will present first results from the dedicated study of the EChO science payload carried out by our EChO
Instrument Consortium during the assessment phase of the mission.
KEYWORDS: Fabry–Perot interferometers, Calibration, Spectral resolution, Spectroscopy, Sensors, Data modeling, Instrument modeling, James Webb Space Telescope, Space telescopes, Telescopes
We present the wavelength and spectral resolution characterisation of the Integral Field Unit (IFU) Medium
Resolution Spectrometer for the Mid-InfraRed Instrument (MIRI), to fly onboard the James Webb Space Telescope
in 2014. We use data collected using the Verification Model of the instrument and develop an empirical
method to calibrate properties such as wavelength range and resolving power in a portion of the spectrometer's
full spectral range (5-28 μm). We test our results against optical models to verify the system requirements and
combine them with a study of the fringing pattern in the instrument's detector to provide a more accurate calibration.
We show that MIRI's IFU spectrometer will be able to produce spectra with a resolving power above
R = 2800 in the wavelength range 6.46 - 7.70 μm, and that the unresolved spectral lines are well fitted by a
Gaussian profile.
The Mid Infrared Instrument of the James Webb Space Telescope is equipped with an integral field unit (IFU)
spectrometer. The optical distortion in the image slicing and dispersive optics leads to non-uniform sampling
and a catenation of the spatial and spectral information on the detector plane. To enable the translation of
detector data to the three-dimensional data cube representing the two spatial and the spectral sky dimension,
we have built two software tools: The first is miri cube, an image reconstruction programme which translates
the detector data back into the sky cube. The second is an extended version of SpecSim, an IFU simulator which
simulates the image slicing and dispersion based on optical models of the instrument. With these tools we are
able to determine and implement the correct strategy for the end-to-end calibration of spectroscopy data during
the on-ground cryogenic test campaign.
The Euclid dark energy mission is currently competing in ESA's Cosmic Vision program. Its imaging instrument,
which has one visible and one infrared channel, will survey the entire extragalactic sky during the 5 year mission.
The near-infrared imaging photometer (NIP) channel, operating in the ~0.92 - 2.0 μm spectral range, will be
used in conjunction with the visible imaging channel (VIS) to constrain the nature of dark energy and dark
matter. To meet the stringent overall photometric requirement, the NIP channel requires a dedicated on-board
flat-field source to calibrate the large, 18 detector focal plane.
In the baseline concept a 170 mm Spectralon diffuser plate, mounted to a pre-existing shutter mechanism
outside the channel, is used as a flat-field calibration target, negating the need for an additional single-point-failure
mechanism. The 117 × 230 mm focal plane will therefore be illuminated through all of the channel's
optical elements and will allow flat-field measurements to be taken in all wavelength bands. A ring of low power
tungsten lamps, with custom reflecting elements optimized for optical performance, will be used to illuminate
the diffuser plate.
This paper details the end-to-end optical simulations of this concept, a potential mechanical implementation
and the initial tests of the proposed key components.
Euclid is an ESA Cosmic Vision wide-field space mission concept dedicated to the high-precision study of Dark Energy
and Dark Matter. The mission relies on two primary cosmological probes: Weak gravitational Lensing (WL) and Baryon
Acoustic Oscillations (BAO).
The first probe requires the measurement of the shape and photometric redshifts of distant galaxies. The second probe is
based on the 3-dimensional distribution of galaxies through spectroscopic redshifts. Additional cosmological probes are
also used and include cluster counts, redshift space distortions, the integrated Sachs-Wolfe effect (ISW) and galaxy
clustering, which can all be derived from a combination of imaging and spectroscopy.
Euclid Imaging Channels Instrument of the Euclid mission is designed to study the weak gravitational lensing
cosmological probe. The combined Visible and Near InfraRed imaging channels form the basis of the weak lensing
measurements. The VIS channel provides high-precision galaxy shape measurements for the measurement of weak
lensing shear. The NIP channel provides the deep NIR multi-band photometry necessary to derive the photometric
redshifts and thus a distance estimate for the lensed galaxies.
This paper describes the Imaging Channels design driver requirements to reach the challenging science goals and the
design that has been studied during the Cosmic Vision Assessment Phase.
We present a first design study of the shutter mechanism to be implemented on the visible channel of the
Euclid imager. The main functionality of the shutter is to obscure the light during the detector read-out and
flat field calibration. Hence, the major design drivers are the number of open/close cycles of 160,000 and the
opening/closing time of 5 sec without introducing a too large uncompensated momentum disturbance. The
current design foresees to use two fully redundant actuators, which drive the shutter via a lever system. In case
of an actuator failure, the blocked actuator can be disengaged via a fail-safe system.
The Mid Infrared Instrument (MIRI) aboard JWST is equipped with one filter wheel and two dichroic-grating wheel
mechanisms to reconfigure the instrument between observing modes such as broad/narrow-band imaging, coronagraphy
and low/medium resolution spectroscopy. Key requirements for the three mechanisms with up to 18 optical elements on
the wheel include: (1) reliable operation at T = 7 K, (2) high positional accuracy of 4 arcsec, (3) low power dissipation,
(4) high vibration capability, (5) functionality at 7 K < T < 300 K and (6) long lifetime (5-10 years). To meet these
requirements a space-proven wheel concept consisting of a central MoS2-lubricated integrated ball bearing, a central
torque motor for actuation, a ratchet system with monolithic CuBe flexural pivots for precise and powerless positioning
and a magnetoresistive position sensor has been implemented. We report here the final performance and lessons-learnt
from the successful acceptance test program of the MIRI wheel mechanism flight models. The mechanisms have been
meanwhile integrated into the flight model of the MIRI instrument, ready for launch in 2014 by an Ariane 5 rocket.
The Mid-Infrared Instrument (MIRI) of the James Webb Space Telescope, scheduled for launch in 2013, will provide a
variety of observing modes such as broad/narrow-band imaging, coronagraphy and low/medium resolution
spectroscopy. One filter wheel and two dichroic-grating wheel mechanisms allow to configure the instrument between
the different observing modes and wavelength ranges. The main requirements for the three mechanisms with up to 18
positions on the wheel include: (1) reliable operation at T ~ 7 K, (2) optical precision, (3) low power dissipation, (4)
high vibration capability, (5) functionality at 6 K < T < 300 K and (6) long lifetime (5-10 years). To meet these stringent
requirement, a space-proven mechanism design based on the European ISO mission and consisting of a central bearing
carrying the optical wheels, a central torque motor for wheel actuation, a ratchet system for precise and powerless
positioning and a magnetoresistive position sensor has been selected. We present here the detailed design of the flight
models and report results from the extensive component qualification.
KEYWORDS: Current controlled current source, James Webb Space Telescope, Actuators, Contamination control, Mid-IR, Coronagraphy, Temperature metrology, Shape memory alloys, Fermium, Frequency modulation
During its cold mission phase at 7 Κ the Mid Infrared Instrument (MIRI) is the coldest spot on the James
Webb Space Telescope (JWST) and will act consequently as a cryopump of the instrument's environment. Since
the absorption of outgassing molecules from the spacecraft (mainly water and hydrocarbons) on optical surfaces
would lead to a significant degradation of the optical performance of MIRI, a Contamination Control Cover
(CCC) has been introduced. This cover is placed in the entrance optical path of MIRI right after the picko.
mirror (POM) and will be closed during the instrument's cool down phase and at MIRI's operational temperature
each time the POM is heated up for decontamination. The CCC will be used further as an optical shutter for
dark sky calibration and for the protection against latency images which might emerge from coronagraphic filter
changes. Therefore, the CCC has been designed to be multi operational with approximately 3000 life cycles. A
contact-free labyrinth seal allows the required reduction of molecular flow towards the instrument and avoids the
possibility of any freezing. The CCC is operational between 300 Κ and 7 Κ and is actuated by two redundant
stepper motors. In this paper we describe the design of the CCC and the results of the qualification campaign.
Further a dedicated measurement of its molecular conductance at various temperatures is presented.
The Mid-Infrared Instrument (MIRI) is one of the three scientific instruments to fly on the James Webb Space
Telescope (JWST), which is due for launch in 2013. MIRI contains two sub-instruments, an imager, which has low
resolution spectroscopy and coronagraphic capabilities in addition to imaging, and a medium resolution IFU
spectrometer. A verification model of MIRI was assembled in 2007 and a cold test campaign was conducted between
November 2007 and February 2008. This model was the first scientifically representative model, allowing a first
assessment to be made of the performance. This paper describes the test facility and testing done. It also reports on the
first results from this test campaign.
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