Characterization and Performance of the 4k×4k CCD Camera Mounted on 104-cm Sampurnanand Telescope

Abstract

In this paper, we present the instrumental characterization and performance of the 4[Formula: see text]k CCD detector mounted on a 104-cm Sampurnanand telescope located at ARIES, Manora Peak Nainital, India. A detailed description of the filter wheel and its motion is presented. We measured the gain and read-out noise along with the linearity of the detector. Gain estimates are 5–10% higher than manufacturer values. The estimated read-out noise values do not fall within the manufacturer’s range. It is expected that experimentally derived values will be more precise than designed values. It is suggested that the current derived values will be used rather than the designed values. The response to the incident light on the detector is linear to 99% level. To study the performance of a 4[Formula: see text]k CCD camera, we observe an open cluster Czernik 43. The fundamental parameters, i.e. log(age), distance and reddening [Formula: see text] are estimated as 7.9, 2.5[Formula: see text]kpc and 0.65[Formula: see text]mag, respectively. The estimated parameters of the cluster are comparable to the values derived in the literature within the error. Our detailed analysis illustrates that the detector is precise enough to carry out routine astronomical observations.