Remote refilling of LN2 cryostats for high sensitivity astronomical applications

[摘要] The most sensitive observation mode of the ESO VLT (European Southern Observatory Very Large Telescope) is the interferometric mode, where the 4 Units Telescopes are directed to the same stellar object in order to operate as a gigantic interferometer. The beam is then re-combined in the main interferometry laboratory and fed into the analyzing instruments. In order not to disturb the performance of the Interferometer, this room is considered as a sanctuary where one enters only in case of extreme need. A simple opening of the door would create air turbulences affecting the stability for hours. Any cold spot in the room could also cause convection which might change the optical path by fraction of a micron. Most of the instruments are operating at cryogenic temperatures using passive cooling based on LN2 bath cryostat. For this reason, dedicated strategy has been developed for the transfer of LN2 to the various instruments. The present document describes the various aspects and care taken in order to guarantee the very high thermal and mechanical environmental stability.

[发布机构] ESO, Karl-Schwarzschild-Strasse 2, Garching bei München; 85748, Germany^1

[效力级别] 物理学 [学科分类] 材料科学（综合）

[关键词] Air turbulence;Astronomical application;Cryogenic temperatures;Environmental stability;European Southern Observatory;High sensitivity;Passive cooling;Very large telescope