Stereo-SCIDAR: Instrument and First Commissioning Results
Abstract
The vertical distribution of atmospheric optical turbulence has a significant impact on the performance of wide-field adaptive optics systems. Stereo-SCIDAR is an instrument capable of measuring the vertical profile of the turbulence strength and velocity with high sensitivity and altitude resolution. Stereo-SCIDAR, developed in close collaboration with Durham University, was successfully tested at the La Silla Paranal Observatory in mid-2016. This visitor instrument is located at the coudé focus of one of the Auxiliary Telescopes and will record atmospheric turbulence profiles above Paranal for one year starting in October 2016. These measurements are required for the specification and implementation of adaptive optics for the European Extremely Large Telescope.
- Publication:
-
The Messenger
- Pub Date:
- December 2016
- Bibcode:
- 2016Msngr.166...41D