A laser frequency comb featuring sub-cm/s precision for routine operation on HARPS

Abstract

We present a re-engineered version of the laser frequency comb that has proven a few-cm/s calibration repeatability on the HARPS spectrograph during past campaigns. The new design features even better performance characteristics. The newly arranged oscillator, filter cavities and fiber injection for spectral broadening allow robust long term operation, controlled from a remote site. Its automation features enable easy operation for non-experts. The system is being prepared for installation on the HARPS spectrograph in fall of 2014, and will subsequently become available to the astronomical community.