Instrumentation for measuring dome turbulence

Astronomers do everything they can to minimise the turbulence that is degrading the quality of their data. One of their weapons are adaptive optic systems that correct the wavefront. But another, and usually underestimated method is to optimise the air flow inside the observatory.

This project will involve building an optical instrument to quantify the turbulence inside the observatory dome and provide usefull data to make changes to its configuration and ultimately improve astronomical data. This project is perfect for a student interested in gaining some lab experience, working on an optical bench.