M. J. Creech-Eakman (Magdalena Ridge Observatory), V. Romero (Magdalena Ridge Observatory), C. Cormier (Magdalena Ridge Observatory), D. Westpfahl (Magdalena Ridge Observatory), D. Buscher (University of Cambridge), C. Haniff (University of Cambridge), J. Young (University of Cambridge), C. Aitken (Magdalena Ridge Observatory), E. Bakker (Magdalena Ridge Observatory), H. Bloemhard (Magdalena Ridge Observatory), T. Coleman (Magdalena Ridge Observatory), A. Farris (Magdalena Ridge Observatory), S. Jiminez (Magdalena Ridge Observatory), C. Jurgenson (Magdalena Ridge Observatory), R. King (Magdalena Ridge Observatory), D. Klinglesmith (Magdalena Ridge Observatory), K. McCord (Magdalena Ridge Observatory), T. McCracken (Magdalena Ridge Observatory), A. Olivares (Magdalena Ridge Observatory), I. Payne (Magdalena Ridge Observatory), M. Richmond (Magdalena Ridge Observatory), C. Salcido (Magdalena Ridge Observatory), F. Santoro (Magdalena Ridge Observatory), R. Selina (Magdalena Ridge Observatory), A. Shtromberg (Magdalena Ridge Observatory), J. Steenson (Magdalena Ridge Observatory), F. Baron (University of Cambridge), M. Fisher (University of Cambridge), E. Seneta (University of Cambridge), X. Sun (University of Cambridge), D. Wilson (University of Cambridge)
Keywords: Instrumentation, Sensors & Systems
Abstract:
The Magdalena Ridge Observatory Interferometer (MROI) is the most ambitious optical interferometer project in the world today. First funded in 2000, the project has gained significant momentum in the last few years, and is working closely with our collaborators from the University of Cambridge. We have recently completed and begun outfitting the Ridge beam combining facilities and have telescopes and optics under construction. When completed, MROI will include 10 movable telescopes operating over 7.5 to 340m baselines and wavelengths (0.6-2.4 microns) that will allow astronomers to produce sub-milliarcsecond images of a large variety of astrophysical targets. I will present our overall completed design and recent progress, our timeline to first light, and the significant technical and scientific milestones anticipated as we are entering our commissioning. First light and inception of commissioning are expected in 2010.
Date of Conference: September 1-4. 2009
Track: Instrumentation, Sensors & Systems