Iterative development of a python-driven software for detector control replacement at Gemini Observatory

Hawi Stecher; John White; Andrew W. Stephens; Edo Tapia; Joey D'Amato; Shane Jacobson; Andy Adamson; Charlie Figura; Jen Miller; Ricardo Cardenes; Luc Boucher; Brittany Cooper; Carlos Quiroz; Emma Kurz; Francisco Ramos

doi:10.1117/12.3019553

25 July 2024 Iterative development of a python-driven software for detector control replacement at Gemini Observatory

Hawi Stecher, John White, Andrew W. Stephens, Edo Tapia, Joey D'Amato, Shane Jacobson, Andy Adamson, Charlie Figura, Jen Miller, Ricardo Cardenes, Luc Boucher, Brittany Cooper, Carlos Quiroz, Emma Kurz, Francisco Ramos

Author Affiliations +

Proceedings Volume 13101, Software and Cyberinfrastructure for Astronomy VIII; 131013M (2024) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.3019553
Event: SPIE Astronomical Telescopes + Instrumentation, 2024, Yokohama, Japan

Conference Poster

Abstract

Gemini Observatory commissioned a SDSU (ARC) detector controller (DC) replacement for the aging GNAAC DC for the Gemini Near Infrared Spectrograph (GNIRS). The focus of this paper is on the iterative development approach that led to a unique Python-based DC. We leveraged the stability and modern technology of the Gemini Data System (GDS) and Gemini Instrument API (GIAPI) to facilitate communication between the DC and the Gemini telescope systems. Another core innovation was to implement a Python version of the Gemini specific CAD/CAR EPICS records which allowed us to switch from an EPICS Input Output Controller (IOC) to a Caproto Python IOC. These innovations allow the Python based DC to communicate with all of the many Gemini systems required to process GNIRS observations. The use of a Python based DC enhances the system's functionality but also simplifies future updates and maintenance. Our paper delves into the team-centric iterative development process, the software engineering challenges, and the initial operational performance, emphasizing the software's role in modernizing the observatory's infrastructure.

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Hawi Stecher, John White, Andrew W. Stephens, Edo Tapia, Joey D'Amato, Shane Jacobson, Andy Adamson, Charlie Figura, Jen Miller, Ricardo Cardenes, Luc Boucher, Brittany Cooper, Carlos Quiroz, Emma Kurz, and Francisco Ramos "Iterative development of a python-driven software for detector control replacement at Gemini Observatory", Proc. SPIE 13101, Software and Cyberinfrastructure for Astronomy VIII, 131013M (25 July 2024); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.3019553

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