Site testing for visible astronomy

Jean Vernin

doi:10.1117/12.801267

22 April 2008 Site testing for visible astronomy

Jean Vernin

Proceedings Volume 6986, Extremely Large Telescopes: Which Wavelengths? Retirement Symposium for Arne Ardeberg; 69860E (2008) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.801267
Event: Extremely Large Telescopes: Which Wavelengths? Retirement Symposium for Arne Ardeberg, 2007, Lund, Sweden

Abstract

Here we describe the general guidelines for astronomical site testing in the visible range. We recall the main parameters which drives and orientates a site characterization among other parameters of less importance. One needs to select a site from which the stars are visible as much time as possible, with the best transparency and allowing the best angular resolution. We recall that, in order to appear, the optical turbulence requires a medium where simultaneously a vertical gradient of the refractive index and a vertical gradient of the horizontal wind speed are present. If one of these conditions is not fulfilled, no optical turbulence will disturb the light propagation. Few exemples are detailed, and few clues are given to orient the choice of a site throughout the infinite possibilities in the world. A special thank is given to A. Ardeberg for his major contribution in telescope environment leading to minimize dome and mirror seeing, which has been implemented in the Nordic Optical Telescope and then inspired the next generation of very large telescopes.

Citation Download Citation

Jean Vernin "Site testing for visible astronomy", Proc. SPIE 6986, Extremely Large Telescopes: Which Wavelengths? Retirement Symposium for Arne Ardeberg, 69860E (22 April 2008); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.801267

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