A flair for multi-object spectroscopy

Abstract

Unique in the regime of wide-field astronomy is the multi-object spectroscopy system ‘FLAIR’ developed for the UK Schmidt Telescope (UKST). The current system can perform simultaneous observations of ∼ 90 objects across 40 sq. degrees of sky. FLAIR has given a whole new platform for performing astronomical observations with a Schmidt telescope in a non-photographic role. The system is simple to operate, highly stable, easy to interchange with standard photography and outclasses singleobject spectroscopy systems on 2.0 m class telescopes for many types of observation. The system has continued to be developed to enhance its flexibility, robustness and versatility, culminating recently in the commissioning of new fibre feeds and formats. The facility to observe independent standard stars, and the capability of observing objects in two UKST fields in a single night has recently been demonstrated. FLAIR is a powerful, cost-effective addition to the instrumental repertoire of the Anglo-Australian Observatory in a way that was not even remotely envisaged when the UKST was built.