The ESI instrument is a versatile, multi-mode spectrograph and imager. There
are two distinct spectroscopic modes: a medium-resolution echellette mode with
prism cross dispersion; and a high-throughput mode using prism dispersion only.
The spectrograph modes cover the full wavelength range of the Keck II silvered
mirrors (3900 to 11000 A) in a single exposure. The low-resolution, prism-only
mode provides the same spectral range, multi-object capability, and very high
throughput. ESI also provides an imaging mode with a field of view of 2 arcmin
x 8 arcmin. An Epps refracting camera and a single 2K x 4K detector are used
for all three modes.
View some construction images or engineering drawings.
Project Principal Investigator: Joe Miller (Director -
UCO/Lick)
Co-Principal Investigators: Michael Bolte, Raja
Guhathakurta, Dennis Zaritsky
Optical Designers: Brian Sutin, Harland Epps
Project Manager: David Cowley
Project Engineers: Matthew Radovan, Andrew Sheinis
ESI saw first light at Keck Observatory August 29, 1999. The instrument is now being fully utilized. See the Keck ESI page for the latest details.
Get more information on the ESI logo jacket
dculmer@ucolick.org