2016/06/13 by Michael Bottom, J. Chris Shelton, James K. Wallace +6
Physics and Astronomy · #Stellar, planetary, and galactic studies #Astronomy and Astrophysical Research #Adaptive optics and wavefront sensing
paper · pdf · doi:10.1088/1538-3873/128/965/075003
We present a new instrument, the "Stellar Double Coronagraph," a flexible coronagraphic platform. Designed for Palomar Observatorys 200 Hale telescope, its two focal and pupil planes allow for a number of different observing configurations, including multiple vortex coronagraphs in series for improved contrast at small angles. We describe the motivation, design, observing modes, wavefront control approaches, data reduction pipeline, and early science results. We also discuss future directions for the instrument.