◆Research projects
[current project (1)]
Infrared Astronomy in Antarctica
In Antarctica the cold and dry air is expected to provide the best observing
conditions on the Earth for astronomical observations from infra-red to
sub-millimeter. To enjoy the advantages in Antarctica, we have a plan to
make astronomical observations at Dome Fuji, which is located at inland
Antarctica. However, the harsh environment is very problematic. For example,
the temperature comes down to as low as -80 degree Celsius in winter, where
instruments designed for temperate environment would not work. In this
context, we have developed a 40 cm infra-red telescope, which is dedicated
for the use even in winter at Dome Fuji. We are now planning the construction of 2m-class infrared telescope.
[current project (2)]
MOIRCS
The superb image quality of Subaru telescope and excellent atmospheric
condition at Mauna Kea in Hawaii, especially in near-infrared, enable us
to observe fine structures of faint objects. To enjoy the advantages of
Subaru telescope and the development of large focal plane arrays in near-infrared,
we have constructed Multi-Object InfraRed Camera and Spectrograph (MOIRCS),
which is a facility instrument dedicated for wide-field imaging and multi-object
spectroscopy in near-infrared. The designing was started in 1999 jointly
by Subaru Telescope of National Astronomical Observatory Japan and Institute
of Astronomy, Tohoku University. MOIRCS saw the first light in September,
2004. It is now operated as a common use instrument open for all astronomers
in the world.
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Published papers
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Address and access
◆Link
Tohoku University
Graduate School of Science, Faculty of Science
Astronomical Institute
Last update Dec. 29, 2010
