Article contents
3D-Exploration of the Universe by a wide-field Imaging FTS at high spectral resolution
Published online by Cambridge University Press: 13 November 2008
Abstract
In a first part the paper reviews some of the major Spitzer legacy imagingsurveys to show the quantity of data available, and the subsequent need forspectroscopic follow-up surveys on equivalent wide fields. They arerequired for many science cases, as giant star forming regions, youngplanetary nebulea, the Galactic Centre, nearby galaxies, distant galaxyclusters. This capability of wide, integral field spectroscopy, missing inall the existing and planned astronomical facilities, thus, appears amongthe most pertinent choice for the future of astronomy at Dome C. For theinstrumental solution, aflexibility in the choice of spectral resolution and spectral domain on abroad infrared range is desirable to be able to undertake a large variety of study, onextragalactic and galactic fields as well. This capability can be only offered byan Imaging FTS. It fully benefits from the low thermal backgroundemission of Dome C, particularly in the 1.8 to 5.5 μm range, and reachan optimum sensitivity by imaging emission lines. In a difficult site asDome C, a dedicated, medium-size telescope would be the most effective wayof exploiting such an instrument.
- Type
- Research Article
- Information
- Copyright
- © EAS, EDP Sciences, 2008
References
- 2
- Cited by