1.5mRC Control of spectrograph functions

The slit width and the comparison illumination system can be controlled remotely from the control room. All other controls are set manually at the spectrograph. We don't expect (or want) you to have to do this; your friendly observer support specialist and telescope operator will make adjustmets to the spectrograph for you. In fact, observer support will carry out all of the following tasks for you:

  • Install gratings, optics, filters as specified on your Observer Support Questionnaire.
  • Focus the spectrograph.
  • Rotate the dewar so that the arc lines are aligned with the CCD columns at the center of the CCD.
  • Set grating tilts to obtain approximately the wavelength coverage you have specified. But...You Have The Final Responsibility To Check That The Wavelength Coverage Is Correct.
  • Help you to set the CCD parameters correctly. These include gain, binning, area on chip to be read out, which amplifiers to use.
  • Help you to get flat field and arc lamp exposures in the afternoons.
  • Fill the CCD dewar for you.
  • Generally get you out of trouble. The observer support specialist is your primary contact at times when a telescope operator is not present. Call him if you need help.