Conceptual design for an AIUC multi-purpose spectrograph camera using DMD technology

摘要

Current and upcoming massive astronomical surveys are expected to discover a torrent of objects, which need ground-based follow-up observations to characterize their nature. For transient objects in particular, rapid early and efficient spectroscopic identification is needed. In particular, a small-field Integral Field Unit (IFU) would mitigate traditional slit losses and acquisition time. To this end, we present the design of a Digital Micromirror Device (DMD) multi-purpose spectrograph camera capable of running in several modes: traditional longslit, small-field patrol IFU, multi-object and full-field IFU mode via Hadamard spectra reconstruction. AIUC Optical multi-purpose CAMera (AIUCOCAM) is a low-resolution spectrograph camera of R~l,600 covering the spectral range of 0.45-0.85 um. We employ a VPH grating as a disperser, which is removable to allow an imaging mode. This spectrograph is envisioned for use on a 1-2 m class telescope in Chile to take advantage of good site conditions. We present design decisions and challenges for a cost-effective robotized spectrograph. The resulting instrument is remarkably versatile, capable of addressing a wide range of scientific topics.