ALTAIR, the Gemini North single conjugated Adaptive Optics system has been Gemini AO facility instrument since 2003. Used every single night for the Gemini primary mirror tunning, ALTAIR has been allocated for GEMini NIR instruments science programs including the Near Infrared Integral-field Spectrograph (NIFS), the Near Infrared Imager (NIRI) and the Gemini multi-function spectrograph (GNIRS). In this proceeding, we propose to review the actual performances of our 20 years old AO system. We will also describe the main instrument failure (Slow focus camera, Deformable mirror) that we had to fix to keep ALTAIR alive until the GNAO instrument venue (5 years from now).
Gemini Observatory commissioned a SDSU (ARC) detector controller (DC) replacement for the aging GNAAC DC for the Gemini Near Infrared Spectrograph (GNIRS). The focus of this paper is on the iterative development approach that led to a unique Python-based DC. We leveraged the stability and modern technology of the Gemini Data System (GDS) and Gemini Instrument API (GIAPI) to facilitate communication between the DC and the Gemini telescope systems. Another core innovation was to implement a Python version of the Gemini specific CAD/CAR EPICS records which allowed us to switch from an EPICS Input Output Controller (IOC) to a Caproto Python IOC. These innovations allow the Python based DC to communicate with all of the many Gemini systems required to process GNIRS observations. The use of a Python based DC enhances the system's functionality but also simplifies future updates and maintenance. Our paper delves into the team-centric iterative development process, the software engineering challenges, and the initial operational performance, emphasizing the software's role in modernizing the observatory's infrastructure.
IGRINS-2 is a high-resolution, near-infrared spectrograph developed by Korea Astronomy and Space Science Institute (KASI) for Gemini Observatory as a new facility instrument. It provides spectral resolving power of ~45,000 and a simultaneous wavelength coverage of 1.49-2.46 μm. IGRINS-2 is an improved version of IGRINS (Immersion GRating INfrared Spectrometer) with minor optical and mechanical design changes, new detector controllers, and operating software to be fully integrated into Gemini operating systems. Since the project began in early 2020, project key milestones including assembly and pre-delivery performance verification were completed, and delivered to Gemini North in early September, 2023. After the successful post-delivery verification and telescope integration, the first light spectra were acquired in October 2023. We present design changes and upgrades made to IGRINS-2 from the original IGRINS, assembly and alignment procedures, and verification of the instrument requirements. We also report the preliminary results of the system performance tests.
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