A CCD CAMERA FOR THE ECHELLE SPECTROGRAPH AT CATANIA ASTROPHYSICAL OBSERVATORY

The design, components, and operation of the CCD camera at the Catania Astrophysical Observatory are described. Consideration is given to the mechanical interface between the spectrograph Schmidt camera and the dewar; the acquisition system, which includes a CCD controller and computer; and the software for data handling and prereduction. The linearity, readout noise, and charge-transfer efficiency for the CCD camera are evaluated. Examples revealing the applicability of the echelle spectrograph with CCD camera are presented.