DeepSpec is a novel R~650 broad-band (365nm-900nm) spectrograph planned for the Weizmann Multi-Aperture Spectroscopic Telescope (MAST). MAST is an array of twenty 60cm PlaneWave telescopes, capable of either acting as a single 2.7m telescope or multiplexing over the entire sky using smaller flexible groups. This approach will make the combination of MAST/DeepSpec a unique facility worldwide in terms of its low cost, flexibility and efficiency, capable of observing up to hundreds of targets per night spread over large areas. With an end-to-end throughput of >65%, DeepSpec will be able to observe targets fainter than 20.5mag in a 15-min exposure using all telescopes, or tens/hundreds of spectra per hour of 18-19 magnitude targets using smaller groups of telescopes – making it an ideal instrument for time-domain astronomy. DeepSpec is currently in the assembly, integration and testing phase and is planned to start on-sky commissioning by summer of 2024.
We present the updated design of HighSpec, a high-resolution R ∼ 20, 000 spectrograph designed for the Multi Aperture Spectroscopic Telescope (MAST). HighSpec offers three observing modes centered at the Ca II H&K, Mgb triplet, and Hα lines. Each mode is supported by a highly optimized ion-etched grating, contributing to an instrument exceptional peak efficiency of ≳ 85% for the two latter bands (≳ 55% for the Ca II H&K band). Optimizing throughput over wavelength coverage (Δλ = 10−17 nm), HighSpec enables the precise measurement of spectral lines from faint targets. This approach is especially relevant for stellar object studies, specifically of WDs, which are intrinsically faint and have few spectroscopic lines. Each observing mode was tailored to target spectral features essential for WD research. Its integration with MAST, an array of 20 custom-designed telescopes that can function as a single large telescope (equivalent to a 2.7m telescope in collecting area) or multiplexing over the entire sky, provides unique adaptability for extensive and effective spectroscopic campaigns. Currently in its final assembly and testing stages, HighSpec’s on-sky commissioning is scheduled for 2025.
Access to the requested content is limited to institutions that have purchased or subscribe to SPIE eBooks.
You are receiving this notice because your organization may not have SPIE eBooks access.*
*Shibboleth/Open Athens users─please
sign in
to access your institution's subscriptions.
To obtain this item, you may purchase the complete book in print or electronic format on
SPIE.org.
INSTITUTIONAL Select your institution to access the SPIE Digital Library.
PERSONAL Sign in with your SPIE account to access your personal subscriptions or to use specific features such as save to my library, sign up for alerts, save searches, etc.