Science and Adaptive Optics Requirements of MICADO, the E-ELT adaptive optics imaging camera

TL;DR

MICADO is an adaptive optics imaging camera for the E-ELT, designed to meet specific science-driven AO requirements for astrometry, photometry, and PSF uniformity, with flexible AO modes including MCAO, SCAO, GLAO, and LTAO.

Contribution

This paper outlines the science motivations and resulting AO system requirements that have shaped MICADO's design for the E-ELT.

Findings

AO requirements are driven by science goals in astrometry and photometry.

MICADO's design includes multiple AO modes for operational flexibility.

Addressing PSF uniformity is crucial for accurate imaging.

Abstract

MICADO is the adaptive optics imaging camera being studied for the E-ELT. Its design has been optimised for use with MCAO, but will have its own SCAO module for the initial operational phase; and in principle could also be used with GLAO or LTAO. In this contribution, we outline a few of the science drivers for MICADO and show how these have shaped its design. The science drivers have led to a number of requirements on the AO system related to astrometry, photometry, and PSF uniformity. We discuss why these requirements have arisen and what might be done about them.