Monochromator-interferometer combination for submillimeter astronomical spectrometry from aircraft

Area of Science:

• Astronomy and Astrophysics
• Spectroscopy
• Instrument Development

Background:

• High spectral resolution is crucial for detailed analysis of astronomical objects.
• Previous instruments may have limitations in achieving desired resolution at far-infrared wavelengths.

Purpose of the Study:

• To construct and test a novel interferometer for astronomical spectroscopy.
• To achieve high spectral resolution in the far-infrared range.

Main Methods:

• A simple interferometer was designed and coupled with a liquid helium-cooled grating instrument.
• Observations were conducted using the NASA Kuiper Airborne Observatory.
• The instrument's performance was evaluated in the wavelength range of approximately 64 cm⁻¹ (157 µm).

Main Results:

• A spectral resolution of approximately 0.1 cm⁻¹ was achieved.
• The system demonstrated successful operation during airborne observations.
• Initial spectra of the planetary nebula NGC 7027 were obtained.

Conclusions:

• The developed interferometer is effective for achieving high spectral resolution in far-infrared astronomy.
• This instrument enables detailed spectral studies of celestial objects.
• The technique shows promise for future astronomical investigations.