First Results from 1.6 m Off-Axis Solar Telescope in Big Bear (Invited)
Abstract
In early 2009 at Big Bear Solar Observatory, first light science observations were made with BBSO's NST (New Solar Telescope), which has a 1.6m clear aperture (0.06” resolution at 500 nm). After a brief introduction to some of the lessons learned in making the telescope, first light observations in TiO, Halpha, G-Band and 1.56 micron lines will be introduced with detailed results presented in other talks in this session, including joint observations with Hinode and other satellites. The NST has an off-axis Gregorian configuration consisting of a parabolic primary, heat-stop, elliptical secondary and diagonal flats. The focal ratio of the primary mirror is f/2.4, and the final ratio is f/50. The working wavelength range covers from 0.4 to 1.7 microns in the Coude Lab beneath the telescope and all wavelengths including the far infrared at the Nasmyth focus on the dome floor. Plans for the on-going commissioning phase will be sketched.
- Publication:
-
AGU Fall Meeting Abstracts
- Pub Date:
- December 2009
- Bibcode:
- 2009AGUFMSH53B..01G
- Keywords:
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- 7524 SOLAR PHYSICS;
- ASTROPHYSICS;
- AND ASTRONOMY / Magnetic fields;
- 7529 SOLAR PHYSICS;
- ASTROPHYSICS;
- AND ASTRONOMY / Photosphere