Long-exposure spectroscopy and spectro-polarimetry at near-infrared wavelengths is one of the preferred tools deployed to measure the physical properties of Solar Prominences, including the Prominence magnetic field. However, until now, it was not possible to observe Prominences in sufficient detail to allow us to understand their dynamical properties. In order to understand Solar prominences, we need to observe them at sub-arcsecond spatial resolution, with a temporal cadence sufficient to make highly transient structures visible. Adaptive Optics capable of locking-on to off-limb prominence structure has the potential of providing diffraction limited spectroscopy and polarimetry of prominence structure. Such an adaptive optics system will allow scientists to come one step closer to understanding the true nature of solar prominences. In this presentation, we will detail the design and construction of such a system.

Date Published: 26 September 2013
PDF: 7 pages
Proc. SPIE 8862, Solar Physics and Space Weather Instrumentation V, 88620C (26 September 2013); doi: 10.1117/12.2023085

Published in SPIE Proceedings Vol. 8862:
Solar Physics and Space Weather Instrumentation V
Silvano Fineschi; Judy Fennelly, Editor(s)