Design of SCALES: A 2-5 Micron Coronagraphic Integral Field Spectrograph for Keck Observatory

TL;DR

SCALES is a newly designed 2-5 micron integral field spectrograph for Keck Observatory, aimed at exoplanet discovery and characterization in the thermal infrared, with capabilities for low and medium-resolution spectroscopy and adaptive optics imaging.

Contribution

This paper introduces the design and specifications of SCALES, a novel infrared spectrograph with unique capabilities for exoplanet research at Keck.

Findings

Design specifications and science case outlined

Simulations indicate expected performance levels

Progress reported on component procurement and testing

Abstract

We present the design of SCALES (Slicer Combined with Array of Lenslets for Exoplanet Spectroscopy) a new 2-5 micron coronagraphic integral field spectrograph under construction for Keck Observatory. SCALES enables low-resolution (R~50) spectroscopy, as well as medium-resolution (R~4,000) spectroscopy with the goal of discovering and characterizing cold exoplanets that are brightest in the thermal infrared. Additionally, SCALES has a 12x12" field-of-view imager that will be used for general adaptive optics science at Keck. We present SCALES's specifications, its science case, its overall design, and simulations of its expected performance. Additionally, we present progress on procuring, fabricating and testing long lead-time components.