Using Site Testing Data for Adaptive Optics Simulations

TL;DR

This paper demonstrates how astronomical site testing data can be utilized to enhance adaptive optics simulations, aiding in the design and operation of large telescope systems like TMT's NFIRAOS.

Contribution

It provides a practical example of using site testing data for adaptive optics simulation, illustrating its importance in system development.

Findings

Site testing data improves adaptive optics simulation accuracy.

Simulations based on site data inform system design choices.

Application to TMT's NFIRAOS demonstrates real-world relevance.

Abstract

Astronomical Site testing data plays a vital role in the simulation, design, evaluation and operation of adaptive optics systems for large telescope. We present the example of TMT and its first light facilitiy adaptive optics system NFIRAOS, and illustrate the many simulations done based on site testing data.