Multi-Object Spectroscopy with MUSE

TL;DR

MUSE is a versatile integral-field spectrograph at the ESO-VLT capable of multi-object spectroscopy, enabling detailed studies of diverse astronomical objects without pre-selection, through its large field-of-view and multiplexing capabilities.

Contribution

This paper summarizes the key features of MUSE and demonstrates its ability to perform multi-object spectroscopy in crowded fields without target pre-selection.

Findings

MUSE can obtain spectra for hundreds of objects simultaneously.

It effectively studies distant galaxies, star-forming regions, and stellar populations.

The instrument's data reduction software handles complex data cubes efficiently.

Abstract

Since 2014, MUSE, the Multi-Unit Spectroscopic Explorer, is in operation at the ESO-VLT. It combines a superb spatial sampling with a large wavelength coverage. By design, MUSE is an integral-field instrument, but its field-of-view and large multiplex make it a powerful tool for multi-object spectroscopy too. Every data-cube consists of 90,000 image-sliced spectra and 3700 monochromatic images. In autumn 2014, the observing programs with MUSE have commenced, with targets ranging from distant galaxies in the Hubble Deep Field to local stellar populations, star formation regions and globular clusters. This paper provides a brief summary of the key features of the MUSE instrument and its complex data reduction software. Some selected examples are given, how multi-object spectroscopy for hundreds of continuum and emission-line objects can be obtained in wide, deep and crowded fields with MUSE, without the classical need for any target pre-selection.