The Gemini Planet Imager: Looking back over five years and forward to the future

Bruce MacIntosh, Jeffery K. Chilcote, Vanessa P. Bailey, Rob De Rosa, Eric Nielsen, Andrew Norton, Lisa Poyneer, Jason Wang, J. B. Ruffio, J. R. Graham, Christian Marois, Dmitry Savransky, Jean Pierre Veran

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

28 Scopus citations

Abstract

The Gemini Planet Imager (GPI), a coronagraphic adaptive optics instrument designed for spectroscopy of extrasolar planets, had first light in 2013. After five years, GPI has observed more than 500 stars, producing an extensive library of science images and associated telemetry that can be analyzed to determine performance predictors. We will present a summary of on-sky performance and lessons learned. The two most significant factors determining bright star contrast performance are atmospheric coherence time and the presence of dome seeing. With a possible move to Gemini North, we are planning potential upgrades including a pyramid-sensor based AO system with predictive control; we will summarize upgrade options and the science they would enable.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationAdaptive Optics Systems VI
EditorsDirk Schmidt, Laura Schreiber, Laird M. Close
PublisherSPIE
ISBN (Print)9781510619593
DOIs
StatePublished - 2018
EventAdaptive Optics Systems VI 2018 - Austin, United States
Duration: Jun 10 2018Jun 15 2018

Publication series

NameProceedings of SPIE - The International Society for Optical Engineering
Volume10703
ISSN (Print)0277-786X
ISSN (Electronic)1996-756X

Conference

ConferenceAdaptive Optics Systems VI 2018
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityAustin
Period6/10/186/15/18

Keywords

  • adaptive optics
  • coronagraph
  • extrasolar planets

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Electronic, Optical and Magnetic Materials
  • Condensed Matter Physics
  • Computer Science Applications
  • Applied Mathematics
  • Electrical and Electronic Engineering

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