NIRES Spectrometer Detector bad reads(11/15/2024)
We recommend to use CDS readout mode only. Fowler mode is still possible but the likelihood of needing to restart the data taking software is very high causing time loss.
For some time we have noticed an issue with the detector readout. We usually experienced one bad readout every 100 images or so. The probability of a bad read has increased significantly. Now we see a bad frame every 4 or 5 Fowler 16 images. After a few of these bad reads, the detector controller would need to reinitialized. Even if the detector is configured to use CDS mode, the frequency of a bad read is about 1 bad image in 20 images. We have taken over 100 images without the need to reinitialize the software..
We continue to troubleshoot this problem.
NIRES New Optical Guider (09/05/2022)We have replaced the old PXL guider with an Andor Marana camera equipped with a shutterless cMOS back-illuminated 2048x2048 detector. The plate scale is smaller but the overll FOV is very similar to the previous camera..
Slit Viewing Camera Guiding (06/01/2022)We have improved the original software running the H1 detector. Now it is possible to guide with the slit-viewing camera. This is suggested in cases where there are no visible guide stars..
NIRES Throughput Curves (09/19/2018)We have calculated preliminary throughput curves for NIRES. They are posted on the throughput and sensitivity pages.
NIRES Service Mission (03/31/2018)On 03/05/18 we identified the shadow of a loose screw projected on top a spectral flat. Since a loose metal piece so close to the main detector poised a serious risk, we decided to warm up the instrument. On previous runs, we had also identified the shadows of some other transparent loose pieces that would move away after rotating the instrument.
On 03/17/18 K. Matthews removed the detector from the instrument and found a connector bracket loose in the cavity between the detector and a saphire window. We also found a piece of mylar tape and a couple of washers. After re-attaching the bracket, we proceeded to start pumping the instrument.
On 03/19/18 the instrument was installed back on the telescope
NIRES First Science Night (02/01/2018)On 02/01/18 Rui Xue and Jingzhe Ma performed the first sceince observations with NIRES.
NIRES Shipment (04/17/17)- After departing Caltech on 03/31/17 NIRES finally arrived at Keck
2 on April 17.
NIRES leaving Caltech.
NIRES arriving to Mauna Kea.