SPHERExLabTools (SLT): A Python Data Acquisition System for SPHEREx Characterization and Calibration

TL;DR

This paper introduces SPHERExLabTools (SLT), a comprehensive Python-based system for controlling, acquiring, visualizing, and archiving calibration data for the upcoming SPHEREx space mission, enhancing calibration accuracy.

Contribution

The paper presents a novel software framework, SLT, specifically designed for SPHEREx calibration, integrating control, data acquisition, visualization, and storage functionalities in a unified system.

Findings

SLT successfully acquired initial calibration data for SPHEREx.

SLT's architecture supports flexible and automated laboratory measurements.

The system improves calibration process efficiency and data management.

Abstract

Selected as the next NASA Medium Class Explorer mission, SPHEREx, the Spectro-Photometer for the History of the Universe, Epoch of Reionization, and Ices Explorer is planned for launch in early 2025. SPHEREx calibration data products include detector spectral response, non-linearity, persistence, and telescope focus error measurements. To produce these calibration products, we have developed a dedicated data acquisition and instrument control system, SPHERExLabTools (SLT). SLT implements driver-level software for control of all testbed instrumentation, graphical interfaces for control of instruments and automated measurements, real-time data visualization, processing, and data archival tools for a variety of output file formats. This work outlines the architecture of the SLT software as a framework for general purpose laboratory data acquisition and instrument control. Initial SPHEREx calibration products acquired while using SLT are also presented.