Gemini Planet Imager Progress

Testing is well underway and the team reports that GPI’s computers are operational, software integration is complete, and mechanisms are tested and operational, including the deformable mirrors. All cryogenic systems are functioning and of special note, the Integral Field Spectrograph is under vacuum and cooled to its operational temperature of 70 K.

The instrument is slated for mounting on the flexure rig on September 25, and extremely thorough testing at the Gemini South instrument lab will continue until GPI is mounted on the telescope in late October, with first on-sky observations to begin in November.