Scientific CCD characterisation at Universidad Complutense LICA Laboratory

Abstract

A CCD test-bench has been built at the Universidad Complutense's LICA laboratory. It is initially intended for commissioning of the MEGARA(1) (Multi-Espectrografo en GTC de Alta Resolucion para Astronomia) instrument but can be considered as a general purpose scientific CCD test-bench. The test-bench uses an incandescent broad-band light source in combination with a monochromator and two filter wheels to provide programmable narrow-band illumination across the visible band. Light from the monochromator can be directed to an integrating sphere for flat-field measurements or sent via a small aperture directly onto the CCD under test for high accuracy diode-mode quantum efficiency measurements. Point spread function measurements can also be performed by interposing additional optics between sphere and the CCD under test. The whole system is under LabView control via a clickable GUI. Automated measurement scans of quantum efficiency can be performed requiring only that the user replace the CCD under test with a calibrated photodiode after each measurement run. A 20cm diameter cryostat with a 10cm window and Brooks Polycold PCC closed-cycle cooler also form part of the test-bench. This cryostat is large enough to accommodate almost all scientific CCD formats has initially been used to house an E2V CCD230 in order to fully prove the test-bench functionality. This device is read-out using an Astronomical Research Camera controller connected to the UKATC's UCAM data acquisition system.