Wavelength calibration sources for the near infrared arm of X-shooter

Florian Kerber; Francesco Saitta; Paul Bristow; Joel Vernet

doi:10.1117/12.787299

11 July 2008 Wavelength calibration sources for the near infrared arm of X-shooter

Florian Kerber, Francesco Saitta, Paul Bristow, Joel Vernet

Proceedings Volume 7014, Ground-based and Airborne Instrumentation for Astronomy II; 70143Y (2008) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.787299
Event: SPIE Astronomical Telescopes + Instrumentation, 2008, Marseille, France

Abstract

We have studied the properties of wavelength calibration sources for the near-IR (NIR: 1000-2500 nm) arm of X-shooter. In a novel approach we are combining laboratory measurements from a Fourier Transform Spectrometer (FTS) and literature data with corresponding simulated data derived from a physical model of X-shooter. The sources studied are pen ray lamps filled with the noble gases Ne, Ar, Kr, and Xe and Th-Ar hollow cathode lamps. As a product we provide a quantitative order by order analysis of the expected properties of the calibration lamps during X-shooter operations. The analysis accounts for blending of lines and makes realistic assumptions about the dynamic range available in a typical wavelength calibration exposure. Based on our study we recommend the use of Ne, Kr, and Ar as the best three lamp combination for X-shooter calibration. A detailed comparison between the predicted and actual performance of the calibration system has been started as part of the X-shooter testing and validation phase and first results are very promising. To our knowledge this is the first time that such a detailed and quantitative analysis of a calibration system has been done prior to the operation of the instrument. The combination of laboratory measurements and instrument modeling provides a powerful tool for future instrument development.

Citation Download Citation

Florian Kerber, Francesco Saitta, Paul Bristow, and Joel Vernet "Wavelength calibration sources for the near infrared arm of X-shooter", Proc. SPIE 7014, Ground-based and Airborne Instrumentation for Astronomy II, 70143Y (11 July 2008); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.787299

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