Algorithms for Planning Multi-Object Spectroscopy Observations with the JWST Near-Infrared Spectrograph
Abstract
Planning observations for the JWST NIRSpec Multi-Object Spectroscopy will be complex because of the fixed-grid nature of the Micro-Shutter Arrays (MSAs) used for this instrument mode. Two algorithms have been incorporated into the 'MSA Planning Tool' (MPT) in the Astronomers Proposal Tools (APT) for this NIRSpec observation planning process. The 'Basic Algorithm' and the 'Constrained Algorithm' both determine a set of on-sky pointing positions which yield an optimal number of science sources observed per MSA shutter configuration, but these algorithms have different strategies for generating their observing plans. The Basic algorithm uses a defined set of fixed dithers specified by the observer, while the Constrained algorithm can more flexibly define dithers by merely constraining offsets from one pointing position to the next. Each algorithm offers advantages for different observing cases. This poster describes the two algorithms and their products, and clarifies observing cases where clear planning advantages are offered by each.
- Publication:
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American Astronomical Society Meeting Abstracts #223
- Pub Date:
- January 2014
- Bibcode:
- 2014AAS...22314935K