News from SSO

Published in the RSAA Lunations
Vol1 Issue54 1–31 August 2024

2dF
As noted in the last edition of Lunations, 2dF was brought back to a functional state in early July. The next step is to make 2dF operational. Later this month, we plan to test 2dF on sky.
 
In parallel, staff at SSO are developing detailed plans to refurbish the instrument. This includes manufacturing and testing new components.
 
It is not yet clear if we can offer 2dF for semester 2025A. A decision on this will be made before the next edition of Lunations.
 
Hot off the press – AITC staff fix AAOmega cryostat leak
During July, the blue cryostat of AAOmega started to lose its vacuum. In other words, there was a leak. To maintain the vacuum, SSO staff had to pump the cryostat every day. One warm-up and bake cycle to remove contamination on the corrector lens/detector was also needed. The Hector run that was scheduled for the end of the month was in jeopardy.
 
AAO MQ were unable to help as they have done in the past due to critically important work, so the call went out to AITC for support. Brian Taylor and Roger Haynes answered the call. Supported by SSO staff, Roger and Brian soon found the leak. The problem was related to one of the LN2 feeds. The coupling had become loose. After replacing the indium seal, the coupling was tightened, and the leak disappeared. The instrument is now being pumped as these words are written. If all goes well, Roger and Brian will already be back by the time you read these lines.

Chris Lidman