NIRPS first light and early science: breaking the 1 m/s RV precision barrier at infrared wavelengths

TL;DR

NIRPS is a highly precise infrared spectrograph achieving better than 1 m/s radial velocity accuracy, enabling advanced exoplanet studies around M dwarfs and demonstrating significant progress in infrared spectroscopic techniques.

Contribution

This paper presents the first light and early science results of NIRPS, a new infrared spectrograph that surpasses 1 m/s RV precision, expanding capabilities for exoplanet detection.

Findings

NIRPS achieved radial velocity precision better than 1 m/s.

Successful deployment and commissioning of NIRPS at La Silla telescope.

Initial science observations demonstrate NIRPS's potential for exoplanet research.

Abstract

The Near-InfraRed Planet Searcher or NIRPS is a precision radial velocity spectrograph developed through collaborative efforts among laboratories in Switzerland, Canada, Brazil, France, Portugal and Spain. NIRPS extends to the 0.98-1.8 $\mu$m domain of the pioneering HARPS instrument at the La Silla 3.6-m telescope in Chile and it has achieved unparalleled precision, measuring stellar radial velocities in the infrared with accuracy better than 1 m/s. NIRPS can be used either stand-alone or simultaneously with HARPS. Commissioned in late 2022 and early 2023, NIRPS embarked on a 5-year Guaranteed Time Observation (GTO) program in April 2023, spanning 720 observing nights. This program focuses on planetary systems around M dwarfs, encompassing both the immediate solar vicinity and transit follow-ups, alongside transit and emission spectroscopy observations. We highlight NIRPS's current performances and the insights gained during its deployment at the telescope. The lessons learned and successes achieved contribute to the ongoing advancement of precision radial velocity measurements and high spectral fidelity, further solidifying NIRPS' role in the forefront of the field of exoplanets.