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An echelle spectrograph for middle ultraviolet solar spectroscopy from rockets
R Tousey1, J D Purcell, D L Garrett
1E. 0. Hulburt Center for Space Research, Naval Research Laboratory, Washington, DC 20390, USA.
Applied Optics
|January 9, 2010
Summary
A compact echelle spectrograph was developed for rocket use, achieving high spectral resolution (0.03 A) for solar studies. A double monochromator effectively minimized stray light, enabling clear solar spectra analysis.
Area of Science:
- Astronomy and Astrophysics
- Spectroscopy
- Rocketry
Background:
- High-resolution spectroscopy is crucial for analyzing celestial objects.
- Space-based instruments require compact and efficient designs.
- Previous solar spectral analysis faced challenges with stray light.
Purpose of the Study:
- To design and test a compact echelle spectrograph for rocket-borne solar observations.
- To achieve high spectral resolution (0.03 A) in the 4000-2000 A range.
- To overcome the challenge of stray light elimination in solar spectroscopy.
Main Methods:
- Utilized an echelle grating spectrograph design for space efficiency.
- Integrated the spectrograph into an Aerobee-150 rocket payload.
- Employed a zero-dispersion double monochromator with a folded beam path to reduce stray light.
- Analyzed laboratory spectra of iron and carbon sources, and solar spectra from rocket flights.
Main Results:
- The spectrograph successfully operated in the 4000-2000 A range with 0.03 A resolution.
- A compact predispersing system using a double monochromator proved effective in minimizing stray light.
- Solar spectra were obtained during 1961 and 1964 rocket flights.
Conclusions:
- Echelle spectrographs are suitable for high-resolution space spectroscopy due to their compact nature.
- The developed double monochromator system is an effective solution for stray light reduction in solar instruments.
- The instrument provides valuable data for solar atmospheric studies.
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