Second generation Robo-AO instruments and systems

TL;DR

This paper discusses the development and deployment of second-generation Robo-AO systems, which are advanced, automated laser adaptive optics instruments designed for various telescopes to improve imaging resolution and correction capabilities.

Contribution

It introduces new Robo-AO systems with enhanced performance, including higher Strehl ratios and sharper imaging, for multiple telescopes, expanding automated adaptive optics technology.

Findings

Over 12,000 observations with the original Robo-AO system.

Development of second-generation systems for larger telescopes.

Improved imaging resolution to approximately 0.07 arcseconds.

Abstract

The prototype Robo-AO system at the Palomar Observatory 1.5-m telescope is the world's first fully automated laser adaptive optics instrument. Scientific operations commenced in June 2012 and more than 12,000 observations have since been performed at the ~0.12" visible-light diffraction limit. Two new infrared cameras providing high-speed tip-tilt sensing and a 2' field-of-view will be integrated in 2014. In addition to a Robo-AO clone for the 2-m IGO and the natural guide star variant KAPAO at the 1-m Table Mountain telescope, a second generation of facility-class Robo-AO systems are in development for the 2.2-m University of Hawai'i and 3-m IRTF telescopes which will provide higher Strehl ratios, sharper imaging, ~0.07", and correction to {\lambda} = 400 nm.