Past, Present, and Future Instrumentation at Gemini Observatory

摘要

First, a status report is given for the on-going (Phase 2) instruments under construction now for Gemini. These instruments will be deployed during 2006 and 2007 at Gemini-South and collectively represent the end of an era of instrument building within the Gemini Partnership. Next, scientific applications and technical details for the next generation of "Aspen" instruments is described. These advanced future instruments will support breakthrough research in areas like extra-solar planets, dark matter, and dark energy. Gemini's ambitious adaptive optics development program in both current and future Aspen instruments is also described. Finally, a look back at some of the trials and tribulations of building instruments at Gemini is presented, with an eye toward the lessons of yesterday, how they helped mold today's program, and how they will likely impact the procurement of future instruments at Gemini.