The upcoming spectroscopic powerhouses at the Isaac Newton Group of Telescopes

TL;DR

The Isaac Newton Group is transitioning its telescopes to focus on large-scale spectroscopic surveys with new instruments like WEAVE and HARPS-3, modernizing operations and increasing open access for scientific research.

Contribution

This paper details the strategic shift of the Isaac Newton Group's telescopes towards survey-driven science with new spectrographs and robotic operations, marking a significant modernization.

Findings

Introduction of WEAVE spectrograph at WHT with upcoming science surveys

Construction of HARPS-3 for exoplanet studies at INT underway

Increased open time and modernization plans for both telescopes

Abstract

The Isaac Newton Group of Telescopes is completing a strategic change for the scientific use of its two telescopes, the 4.2-m William Herschel Telescope (WHT) and the 2.5-m Isaac Newton Telescope (INT). After more than 30 years operating as multi-purpose telescopes, the telescopes will soon complete their shift to nearly-single instrument operation dominated by large surveys. At the WHT, the WEAVE multi-fibre spectrograph is being commissioned in late 2022. Science surveys are expected to launch in 2023. 30% of the available time will be offered in open time. For the INT, construction of HARPS-3, a high-resolution ultra-stable spectrograph for extra-solar planet studies, is underway, with deployment planned for late 2024. The INT itself is being modernised and will operate as a robotic telescope. An average of 40% of the time will be offered as open time. The ING will maintain its student programme. Plans call for moving student work from the INT to the WHT once the INT starts operating robotically.