MOSAIC: the high-multiplex and multi-IFU spectrograph for the ELT

TL;DR

MOSAIC is a versatile multi-object spectrograph designed for the ELT, enabling detailed spectroscopic surveys of faint celestial sources across visible and near-infrared wavelengths, with high multiplex and multi-IFU capabilities.

Contribution

This paper presents the current status, key science cases, and updated requirements of MOSAIC, a high-multiplex, multi-IFU spectrograph for the ELT, moving towards construction readiness.

Findings

Key science cases demonstrate MOSAIC's scientific potential.

Updated top-level requirements align with the instrument's capabilities.

High readiness level supports imminent construction phase.

Abstract

MOSAIC is the planned multi-object spectrograph for the 39m Extremely Large Telescope (ELT). Conceived as a multi-purpose instrument, it offers both high multiplex and multi-IFU capabilities at a range of intermediate to high spectral resolving powers in the visible and the near-infrared. MOSAIC will enable unique spectroscopic surveys of the faintest sources, from the oldest stars in the Galaxy and beyond to the first populations of galaxies that completed the reionisation of the Universe--while simultaneously opening up a wide discovery space. In this contribution we present the status of the instrument ahead of Phase B, showcasing the key science cases as well as introducing the updated set of top level requirements and the adopted architecture. The high readiness level will allow MOSAIC to soon enter the construction phase, with the goal to provide the ELT community with a world-class MOS capability as soon as possible after the telescope first light.