ASTRONOMICAL INSTRUMENTATION FOR GROUND- AND SPACE-BASED TELESCOPES 2010-2015
Lead Research Organisation:
Durham University
Department Name: Physics
Abstract
We propose a continuation of our successful rolling programme of research and development in astronomical instrumentation for ground- and space-based telescopes. Over the period 2010-2015 we propose to conduct experiments which will extend the applicability of adaptive optics correction down to visible wavelengths, and continue our successful programme of atmospheric characterisation using SLODAR. We will also continue our joint programme with ESO to develop a next generation real-time control system for future adaptive optics systems. We will continue to exploit our in-house manufacturing capability for high precision micro-optics with a focus on closed-loop correction systems and precision grinding of ceramic materials for lightweight optics, and will explore the application of photonics technologies to improving the versatility and efficiency of future astronomical instruments.
Publications
Algorri JF
(2013)
Modal liquid crystal array of optical elements.
in Optics express
Allington-Smith J
(2010)
Astrophotonic spectroscopy: defining the potential advantage
in Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society
Allington-Smith J
(2013)
End effects in optical fibres
in Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society
Barr D
(2015)
Reducing adaptive optics latency using Xeon Phi many-core processors
in Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society
Basden A
(2015)
Monte Carlo modelling of multiconjugate adaptive optics performance on the European Extremely Large Telescope
in Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society
Basden A
(2014)
A real-time simulation facility for astronomical adaptive optics
in Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society
Basden A
(2014)
Wide-field adaptive optics performance in cosmological deep fields for multi-object spectroscopy with the European Extremely Large Telescope
in Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society
Basden A
(2014)
Faulty actuator tolerance in deformable mirrors for Extremely Large Telescope multi-object adaptive optics
in Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society
Basden A
(2015)
Sensitivity improvements for Shack-Hartmann wavefront sensors using total variation minimization
in Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society
Basden A
(2010)
Durham adaptive optics real-time controller.
in Applied optics
| Description | The award enabled a programme of underpinning research in 5 key areas of (i) adaptive optics, (ii) atmospheric characterisation, (iii) real-time control systems, (iv) freeform optics manufacture, (v) 3D imaging and spectroscopy. Key findings are listed in the publications (especially SPIE) associated with this grant. |
| Exploitation Route | The outcomes of this rolling grant fed directly into the continuation (bridging grant). |
| Sectors | Aerospace, Defence and Marine |
| Description | Astrophotonica Europe |
| Organisation | University of Sydney |
| Department | School of Physics |
| Country | Australia |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | Joint papers and new ideas |
| Collaborator Contribution | Joint papers and proposals for new ideas. |
| Impact | Papers with JBH. |
| Start Year | 2010 |
| Title | Image Slicers |
| Description | Diamond-machining of reflective image slicers for integral field (area) spectroscopy with form errors and surface roughness errors <10nm. Optics, active and adaptive optics, mirrors, aspherics, interferometers, photonics |
| Type Of Technology | Systems, Materials & Instrumental Engineering |
| Year Produced | 2011 |
| Impact | Key technology in KMOS multi-integral field spectrometer for ESO VLT. This was the first UK-led facility instrument for the ESO VLT. |
| Title | Microslice Hyperspectral Imager |
| Description | A new approach to snapshot hyperspectral imaging based on microlens array technology has been developed. Optics, active and adaptive optics, mirrors, aspherics, interferometers, photonics |
| Type Of Technology | Systems, Materials & Instrumental Engineering |
| Year Produced | 2012 |
| Impact | Potential applications in security sector in addition to environment. CLASP award applied for. |
| Description | NetPark Breakfast meeting |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an open day or visit at my research institution |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Primary Audience | Industry/Business |
| Results and Impact | 50 attendees fro local industry Seveeral expressions of interest in access to facilities |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2011 |