The multi-object double spectrographs for the Large Binocular Telescope

Abstract

The Multi-Object Double Spectrographs (MODS) are two identical high-throughput optical low- to medium-resolution CCD spectrometers being deployed at the Large Binocular Telescope (LBT). Operating in the 340-1000nm range, they use a large dichroic to split light into separately-optimized red and blue channels that feature reflective collimators and decentered Maksutov-Schmidt cameras with monolithic 8×3K CCD detectors. A parallel infrared laser closed-loop image motion compensation system nulls spectrograph flexure giving it high calibration stability. The two MODS instruments may be operated together with digital data combination as a single instrument giving the LBT an effective aperture of 11.8-meter, or separately configured to flexibly use the twin 8.4-meter apertures. This paper describes the properties and performance of the completed MODS1 instrument. MODS1 was delivered to LBT in May 2010 and is being prepared for first-light in September 2010.