Science and Adaptive Optics Requirements of MICADO, the E-ELT adaptive optics imaging camera

Abstract

MICADO is the adaptive optics imaging camera being studied for the E-ELT. Its design has been optimised for use with MCAO, but will have its own SCAO module for the initial operational phase; and in principle could also be used with GLAO or LTAO. In this contribution, we outline a few of the science drivers for MICADO and show how these have shaped its design. The science drivers have led to a number of requirements on the AO system related to astrometry, photometry, and PSF uniformity. We discuss why these requirements have arisen and what might be done about them.

6 pages, to appear in the proceedings of the AO4ELT conference, held in Paris, 22-26 June 2009