We describe observational operations and data reduction for the science instrument FIFI-LS (Field Imaging Far Infrared Line Spectrometer) onboard SOFIA (Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared Astronomy). First, the observation strategy is explained, which plans all the various observing modes and parameters based on the targets and the limitations of the observatory and instrument. Next, the observations must be created in a format readable by instrument control software, via a system of algorithms. Once the observations have been planned and prepared, they must be scheduled, executed and analysed, and this process is outlined. The data reduction system which processes the results from these observations, beginning from retrieving raw data, to obtaining a FITS file data cube readable by analysis programs, is described in detail.

Date Published: 8 July 2014
PDF: 8 pages
Proc. SPIE 9147, Ground-based and Airborne Instrumentation for Astronomy V, 91474G (8 July 2014); doi: 10.1117/12.2055565

Published in SPIE Proceedings Vol. 9147:
Ground-based and Airborne Instrumentation for Astronomy V
Suzanne K. Ramsay; Ian S. McLean; Hideki Takami, Editor(s)