P3.5 Orient the coronagraphs

• Phase : 3
• Status : Draft
• Category : Nighttime testing (functionality and operability) (C4)
• Recurrence : once at commissioning
• Duration : 1.5 hour

Description

• Adjust the orientation of the coronagraphic masks with respect to the true orientation of the M2 spider by rotating the SHARK-NIR derotator.

Prerequisites

• Atmospheric conditions: should be able to see bright stars in the sky (preferably close to zenith?).
• Authorize SHARK-NIR on the SX side.
• Suitable bright enough star close to zenith to have negligible effects from flexures (including the possibility of performing AO).

Procedure

• Pointing to a star, the first coronagraph is inserted in the path. The bearing is rotated maximizing the contrast achieved on the SCICAM. (use the pupil lens to see the pupils alignment maybe)?
• This operation is repeated for all the coronagraphs.

Success criteria

• All the coronagraph are aligned to the true orientation of the M2 spider by maximizing the contrast at SCICAM.
• Note down the contrast achieved for all the coronagraphs including the atmospheric conditions and the brightness of the on-axis star.

Notes LBTO support

• SOUL-AO support

Associated SHARK-NIR personnel

Date performed and by whom Comments

MB: when saying orientation better to specify through wheel rotation DONE.