Characterization of integrated optics components for the second generation of VLTI instruments

TL;DR

This paper evaluates various integrated optics components for the second-generation VLTI instruments, comparing their designs and performances to optimize beam combination techniques for improved astronomical observations.

Contribution

It introduces a comprehensive testing and validation methodology for integrated optics combiners, advancing the development of VLTI second-generation instruments.

Findings

Multiple integrated optics combiners tested and compared

Performance metrics established for different designs

Implications for VSI and Gravity VLTI instruments discussed

Abstract

Two of the three instruments proposed to ESO for the second generation instrumentation of the VLTI would use integrated optics for beam combination. Several design are studied, including co-axial and multi-axial recombination. An extensive quantity of combiners are therefore under test in our laboratories. We will present the various components, and the method used to validate and compare the different combiners. Finally, we will discuss the performances and their implication for both VSI and Gravity VLTI instruments.