The
Perkins Re-Imaging SysteM (PRISM) instrument, built in collaboration with
Lowell Observatory, allows observers to conduct wide-field imaging, long-slit
and multi-object spectroscopy, and polarimetry in the optical and ultraviolet.
The instrument is designed to be easily adaptable to each observer's needs
in terms of apertures, filters, and grisms. These capabilities will enable
researchers to investigate topics such as the origin of the solar system,
the effect of magnetic fields on the structure of the interstellar medium,
the solar-stellar connection, the age and composition of the galactic
disk, the properties of irregular galaxies, and the variable nature of
blazars.
The PRISM instrument is the primary optical instrument for the Perkins telescope at Lowell Observatory. It provides imaging, slit and multi-object spectroscopy, and polarimetry. The involvement of undergraduate and graduate students in the development and use of PRISM at BU allows them to gain experience in the design and construction of astronomical instruments and to conduct dissertation research in the commissioning of the instrument. PRISM is a flexible instrument available to BU and Lowell Observatory users as well as guest astronomers invited by Lowell Observatory.
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