Astronomy & Astrophysics Seminar: G-CLEF and the search for Oxygen in Exoplanets Atmospheres

Abstract: 

Following a review of the G-CLEF – a first light High-R spectrograph for the Giant Magellan Telescope, I will present a concept extreme high resolution spectrograph optimized for molecular oxygen detection in transmission spectroscopy of exoplanets atmospheres. The instrument is based on the transmission properties of Fabry Perot Interferometers, and despite its modest dimensions is capable of achieving spectral resolution and sampling frequency in excess of R~300,000. I will discuss design parameters and the unique aspects that needs to be taken into account in the design of an FPI based instrument, and conclude with MC simulation results demonstrating the advantages of such an instrument.

Seminar Organizer: Dr. Omer Bromberg