Introduction
The Kast Double Spectrograph is used at the cassegrain focus of the Shane 3-m Telescope. It is two separate spectrographs - one optimized for the red, the other for blue - housed in a single structure and having some components in common. Each side offers a selection of dispersive elements for various resolutions and dispersions, and both are also capable of direct imaging over a limited field. Dichroic beamsplitters and separate CCD detectors allow simultaneous observations in red and blue. Both sides are operated from a single interface. A polarimeter is also available for spectropolarimetry observations.
News:
During March 2009, a new motor controller system was installed for
Kast which should be more reliable and robust. There is also new
graphical user interface for motor control. All observers (new and
experienced) must be checked out by a support astronomer (sa@ucolick.org) on the afternoon of
their first observing night to be instructed on the new software and
changes to the system.
Follow these links to: 3-m Time Allocation Policy
Observing Time Request Forms All new users must be checked out by a resident astronomer on their first night. Please request support on your time application. Please direct questions to a Mount Hamilton support astronomer, sa@ucolick.org.