The Penn State Spectroscopic Survey Telescope

Abstract

AbstractTo map the distribution of galaxies and quasars in the universe, we desire a telescope large enough to obtain spectra to about 20th magnitude in under 20 minutes integration and which is devoted entirely to such spectroscopic survey projects in dark time. We also desire extensive bright time observing to monitor large numbers of G-M stars with high-resolution spectroscopy for many years in search of solar-like activity. These projects are suited to a telescope with a large fixed primary, assembled from many spherically figured segments. We present a design for such a telescope that consists of 73 segments, each of 0.9-m diameter and 26-m radius of curvature. Mirror blanks of this size can be cut from standard Pyrex sheets. Effective aperture of the telescope exceeds 7-m; the focal plane system can track objects for 40 minutes, and sky coverage of 48 degrees is obtained by using a fixed tilt for the primary and making the entire telescope and dome rotatable. The focal plane system is lightweight and precisely pointable because spectrographs are coupled to the focus by fiber optic cables. Off-the-shelf components and existing technology are used to keep engineering and development costs low; we must remain within a budget feasible for a university. Because the telescope will be equipped with standard, minimal instrumentation and is intended for very routine observing programs, operating costs will also be low. Hardware components are now being assembled in a laboratory to develop the focal plane control system and the mirror support system.