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Update on IR Instrumentation in Tucson (1Jun92)
(from NSO, NOAO Newsletter No. 30, 1 June 1992)

After a successful engineering run at the McMath using the 128 x 128
InSb array from Amber Engineering, we are looking forward to installing
the array in its new home, an IR Labs dewar featuring dual filter
wheels and dual nitrogen flasks (we will be able to cool the array to
about 55 K by pumping on the inner flask). Even better, we have
received approval to procure a 256 x 256 InSb array from Amber, which
the dewar has been designed to accommodate. With the new camera, a
graphical user interface (almost complete), anamorphic transfer optics
to ensure proper sampling in the spatial and spectral dimensions
(designed and procured), and faster-switching liquid crystals for
polarization control (under procurement), the Near Infrared
Magnetograph (NIM) will reach its operational configuration. In
combination with the infrared grating in the new dual-turret
(visible/IR) McMath main spectrograph, the 256 x 256 camera will also
be available for general spectroscopy in the 1-5 um range, including
the long-awaited fundamental vibration-rotation transitions of carbon
monoxide. The dual-grating system is tentatively scheduled for
installation late this summer.

Dave Jaksha, Greg Kopp, Chuck Mahaffey,
Keith Pierce, Claude Plymate,
Doug Rabin, Jeremy Wagner

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