arXiv subjects

Vincenzo Cianniello

Publications and source records attributed to Vincenzo Cianniello.

4 recordsLinked to original sources

arXiv2026

MORFEO: Advancing Towards Final Design

The Multiconjugate adaptive Optics Relay For ELT Observations (MORFEO) is a first-generation adaptive optics module for the Extremely Large Telescope (ELT), designed to deliver a diffraction-limited, highly uniform 53x53 arcsec field of view to the MICADO near-infrared camera. As the project advances toward its Final Design Review (FDR), significant consolidations have been achieved across all subsystems. This paper presents an updated overview of the MORFEO system, highlighting its dual operational modes (MCAO and SCAO) and recent developments in its opto-mechanical architecture. We dedicate specific focus to the core adaptive hardware, detailing the fifth-generation post-focal deformable mirrors, the highly complex Laser Guide Star (LGS) objective zoom system required to track sodium layer variations, and the Natural Guide Star (NGS) low-order and reference sensing strategies. Furthermore, we detail the advanced pseudo-open-loop control strategy managed by a split Hard and Soft Real-Time Computer architecture. Finally, we report the latest end-to-end performance estimations obtained via the SPECULA simulation framework, demonstrating compliance with the stringent Strehl Ratio and sky coverage requirements under median atmospheric conditions.

astro-ph.IM↗

arXiv2026

WST, the Wide-field Spectroscopic Telescope: Telescope structure FE analyses

The Altitude Structure of the Wide-field Spectroscopic Telescope (WST) is designed to support and position both primary and secondary mirrors, made of structural steel. Due to its dimensions, the Altitude Structure is a substantial part of the WST facility, and its weight, performance, and dynamic behavior play a critical role in the functioning of the Telescope. This paper discusses the iterative process starting from the preliminary structural layout and leading to the optimization of the entire Structure. A Finite Element (FE) model was developed, defining the detailed dimensions and cross sections of each assembly's beams and plates under representative boundary conditions, in order to correctly simulate the operational environment. This model enables accurate estimation of structural weight, mechanical deformations, and stresses, as well as its frequency response for the evaluation of both local and global resonance modes. Based on the initial results obtained using preliminary beam cross sections and shell thickness, several assumptions were formulated to drive the mechanical optimization of the Altitude Structure. The outcome of this work consists of a refined structural configuration and the formulation of the governing design criteria.

astro-ph.IM↗

arXiv2023

MORFEO enters final design phase

MORFEO (Multi-conjugate adaptive Optics Relay For ELT Observations, formerly MAORY), the MCAO system for the ELT, will provide diffraction-limited optical quality to the large field camera MICADO. MORFEO has officially passed the Preliminary Design Review and it is entering the final design phase. We present the current status of the project, with a focus on the adaptive optics system aspects and expected milestones during the next project phase.

astro-ph.IM↗

arXiv2021

MAORY: A Multi-conjugate Adaptive Optics RelaY for ELT

MAORY is the adaptive optics module for ELT providing two gravity invariant ports with the same optical quality for two different client instruments. It enable high angular resolution observations in the near infrared over a large field of view (~1 arcmin2 ) by real time compensation of the wavefront distortions due to atmospheric turbulence. Wavefront sensing is performed by laser and natural guide stars while the wavefront sensor compensation is performed by an adaptive deformable mirror in MAORY which works together with the telescope's adaptive and tip tilt mirrors M4 and M5 respectively.

astro-ph.IM↗