First Science Observations with SOFIA/FORCAST: The FORCAST Mid-infrared Camera

TL;DR

This paper reports on the initial science observations with SOFIA's FORCAST instrument, highlighting its design, performance, and early scientific results in mid-infrared astronomy from the first flights.

Contribution

It presents the design, operation, and initial performance of FORCAST, demonstrating its capability to produce near diffraction-limited images in the mid-infrared range.

Findings

Achieved near diffraction-limited imaging for wavelengths > 30 microns.

Successfully completed thirteen science flights with initial results.

Describes planned modifications to enhance performance.

Abstract

The Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared Astronomy (SOFIA) completed its first light flight in May of 2010 using the facility mid-infrared instrument FORCAST. Since then, FORCAST has successfully completed thirteen science flights on SOFIA. In this paper we describe the design, operation and performance of FORCAST as it relates to the initial three Short Science flights. FORCAST was able to achieve near diffraction-limited images for lambda > 30 microns allowing unique science results from the start with SOFIA. We also describe ongoing and future modifications that will improve overall capabilities and performance of FORCAST.