Editing Gemini Observatory's Multi-Conjugate Adaptive Optics (MCAO) System

Title: Gemini Observatory's Multi-Conjugate Adaptive Optics (MCAO) System

Research Question: How can the Gemini Observatory's Multi-Conjugate Adaptive Optics (MCAO) System be effectively controlled to achieve near-uniform atmospheric compensation over a 1-arcminute square field of view?

Methodology: The researchers designed a control system for the MCAO system, which consists of five primary subsystems: the Laser System, Beam Transfer Optics, Laser Launch Telescope, Adaptive Optics Module, and Safe Aircraft Localization and Satellite Avoidance System. The control system is split into three main functions: the control of the Adaptive Optics System, the control of the SALSA system, and the control of all the opto-mechanical assemblies. The Adaptive Optics System control is managed by the Real Time Controller (RTC), which performs real-time wavefront reconstruction and directly controls the deformable mirrors, tip-tilt mirror, and the readout of the Wavefront Sensors. The SALSA system and opto-mechanical assemblies are controlled by three separate controllers: the Adaptive Optics Module Controller, Beam Transfer / Laser Launch Telescope Controller, and Laser Controller. A sequencer component is implemented to manage all the independent subsystems and serve as the main public interface for the entire MCAO system.

Results: The control system successfully manages the large number of opto-mechanical devices and meets stringent real-time performance requirements. The RTC effectively controls the Adaptive Optics System, SALSA system, and opto-mechanical assemblies, ensuring optimal performance and real-time wavefront reconstruction.

Implications: The successful implementation of the control system for the Gemini Observatory's MCAO System will enable near-uniform atmospheric compensation over a 1-arcminute square field of view, improving the overall performance of the telescope and allowing for more accurate and detailed astronomical observations.

Link to Article: https://arxiv.org/abs/0111020v1
Authors: 
arXiv ID: 0111020v1

[[Category:Computer Science]]
[[Category:System]]
[[Category:Optics]]
[[Category:Control]]
[[Category:Adaptive]]
[[Category:Mcao]]