Instrument News
Pipeline Processing for the RGO spectrograph
A `beta-test' release version of a pipeline processing
system for data obtained with the RGO spectrograph is
now available for evaluation at the AAT. The system is based
on the package written by Jim Lewis (RGO) for the ISIS spectrograph
on the WHT, with a few additional changes to account for the
idiosyncrasies of the RGO spectrograph headers. The system is
based around the IRAF data-reduction package, but it is sufficiently
straightforward to be used by astronomers with no prior experience
of IRAF. With one command the observer will be able to automatically
identify any given number of spectra from a data frame, extract the spectra
with optimal weighting, perform a sky subtraction, and wavelength-calibrate
the data with an accurate dispersion obtained from an associated
arc spectrum (or spectra) where the lines have been identified
automatically. Although intended to run via a graphical user interface
(GUI), users are recommended to use the command-line version for the
present, since the GUI system is not fully de-bugged.
A brief guide to running the system can be found on the AAO
WWW pages. If successful, it is intended to extend this system to
encompass other existing AAT spectroscopic instrumentation. We
would therefore welcome comments/suggestions from users of this system.
Further details can be obtained from Ray Stathakis (ras@aaoepp.aao.gov.au).
Brian Boyle and Ray Stathakis
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