Gemini Infrared Multi-Object Spectrograph: Instrument Overview

TL;DR

GIRMOS is a new infrared multi-object spectrograph for the Gemini telescope, enabling simultaneous high-resolution spectroscopy of four objects, significantly advancing astronomical research and complementing future telescopes like JWST and TMT.

Contribution

This paper introduces GIRMOS, a novel multi-object adaptive optics spectrograph that provides unprecedented simultaneous infrared observations, enhancing efficiency and scientific potential in high-redshift galaxy studies.

Findings

GIRMOS will observe four objects simultaneously within a two-arcminute field.

It offers high-angular-resolution spectroscopy in the 1-2.4 μm range.

The instrument will be operational around 2023, supporting JWST and TMT.

Abstract

The Gemini Infrared Multi-Object Spectrograph (GIRMOS) is a powerful new instrument being built to facility-class standards for the Gemini telescope. It takes advantage of the latest developments in adaptive optics and integral field spectrographs. GIRMOS will carry out simultaneous high-angular-resolution, spatially-resolved infrared ($1-2.4$ $\mu$m) spectroscopy of four objects within a two-arcminute field-of-regard by taking advantage of multi-object adaptive optics. This capability does not currently exist anywhere in the world and therefore offers significant scientific gains over a very broad range of topics in astronomical research. For example, current programs for high redshift galaxies are pushing the limits of what is possible with infrared spectroscopy at $8-10$-meter class facilities by requiring up to several nights of observing time per target. Therefore, the observation of multiple objects simultaneously with adaptive optics is absolutely necessary to make effective use of telescope time and obtain statistically significant samples for high redshift science. With an expected commissioning date of 2023, GIRMOS's capabilities will also make it a key followup instrument for the James Webb Space Telescope when it is launched in 2021, as well as a true scientific and technical pathfinder for future Thirty Meter Telescope (TMT) multi-object spectroscopic instrumentation. In this paper, we will present an overview of this instrument's capabilities and overall architecture. We also highlight how this instrument lays the ground work for a future TMT early-light instrument.