LSST site evaluation

Jacques Sebag; Victor Krabbendam; Chuck Claver; Jeff Barr; Joshua Barr; Jeff Kantor; Abhijt Saha; D. André Erasmus

doi:10.1117/12.670615

23 June 2006 LSST site evaluation

Jacques Sebag, Victor Krabbendam, Chuck Claver, Jeff Barr, Joshua Barr, Jeff Kantor, Abhijt Saha, D. André Erasmus

Proceedings Volume 6267, Ground-based and Airborne Telescopes; 62671R (2006) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.670615
Event: SPIE Astronomical Telescopes + Instrumentation, 2006, Orlando, Florida , United States

Abstract

The project for the proposed Large Synoptic Survey Telescope (LSST) performed more than two years of data collection, site evaluation, and analysis to support the selection of its prime site. LSST assessment was based on using an existing site with existing infrastructure and historical performance information. A large and diverse set of comparative information was compiled for potential sites using results from other site campaigns, measurements from existing large telescopes, new astro-climate measurements, logistical and feasibility information, and from existing satellite and climate databases. Several analyses were performed on these data including the assessment of survey performance using the LSST operation simulator. An independent site selection committee of experts provided recommendations to the Project leading to three finalist sites, one in Mexico, and two in northern Chile. The finalist sites were assessed thoroughly with additional data collection from all-sky cameras and site proposals. Cerro Pachon in Chile was selected to be the site for LSST after a difficult decision between the high quality final candidates. This paper describes the data, analysis and approach used to support the site evaluation.

Citation Download Citation

Jacques Sebag, Victor Krabbendam, Chuck Claver, Jeff Barr, Joshua Barr, Jeff Kantor, Abhijt Saha, and D. André Erasmus "LSST site evaluation", Proc. SPIE 6267, Ground-based and Airborne Telescopes, 62671R (23 June 2006); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.670615

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