VLTI configuration for measurements of Achernar

The configuration of the VLT Interferometer (VLTI) for the measurements of Achernar, a rapidly rotating star. The moveable, 40-cm test telescopes were positioned at specific "stations" (E0 + G1; B3 + M0; with baselines of 66 m and 140 m, respectively), allowing contiguous measurements in two nearly perpendicular directions. The two light beams were then sent via the path-compensating VLTI Delay Lines to the VINCI test instrument where they combined to form interferometric fringes. The positions of the four 8.2-m VLT Unit Telescopes are indicated by numbered circles.

Credit:

ESO

About the Image

Id:eso0316a
Type:Chart
Release date:11 June 2003
Related releases:eso0316
Size:1538 x 1725 px

About the Object

Name:Very Large Telescope
Type:Unspecified : Technology : Observatory : Telescope
Category:Paranal

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