The Near-IR Imager is in its final assembly and integration phase at the IfA in Honolulu in preparation for shipping to Hilo and commissioning. Klaus Hodapp is the P.I. for this instrument. A science grade InSb 1024 × 1024 array has been identified for this instrument and that detector is undergoing detailed characterization.
The Near-IR Spectrograph, being built at NOAO, is in a redesign phase following a hiatus that started last September. Many technical reviewers have declared their endorsement of the new design, and information about the instrument can be found on the Web at http://www.noao.edu/ets/gnirs/.
The Mid-IR Imager is reaching the end of its critical design phase, with a critical design review now scheduled for July 1999. This instrument is destined for Gemini South where it is expected to be delivered in early 2001. It is being built at the University of Florida by a team led by Charles Telesco.
A conceptual design study is beginning for a Near-IR Coronagraph/Imager for Gemini South. Funding for this design study has been awarded to a team led by Douglas Toomey (Mauna Kea Infrared). Following a nine month design effort, the USGP will hold a second open competition to identify a group to produce a complete design and build the instrument.
Todd Boroson