The instrumentation program at the Large Binocular Telescope Observatory in 2024

TL;DR

This paper reviews the current instrumentation at the Large Binocular Telescope in 2024, highlighting upgrades, new instruments, and future development plans to enhance astronomical research capabilities.

Contribution

It provides a comprehensive overview of the LBT's instrumentation status, including recent upgrades and upcoming instrument proposals, advancing the telescope's scientific potential.

Findings

Existing instruments support optical to mid-infrared observations.

Upgrades have improved instrument performance.

Next-generation instrument proposals are being solicited.

Abstract

The Large Binocular Telescope, with its expansive collecting area, angular resolving power, and advanced optical design, provides a robust platform for development and operation of advanced instrumentation for astronomical research. The LBT currently hosts a mature suite of instruments for spectroscopy and imaging at optical through mid-infrared wavelengths, supported by sophisticated adaptive optics systems. This contribution summarizes the current state of instrumentation, including upgrades to existing instruments and commissioning of second generation instruments now in progress. The LBT is soliciting proposals for next generation instrument concepts, with participation open to consortium members and others interested in participation in the Observatory.