A new series of images are now available that provide a "wide-eyed" view of the Gemini North telescope. The images were obtained as part of a program to capture a time-lapse sequence of the Gemini telescopes in operation during the course of one night. Each image shows a complete 180-degree view illuminated by moonlight (except for exterior views).
All images were obtained using a circular format fisheye lens and ~50 second exposures to simulate the naked-eye view of the telescope at night.
The Gemini North telescope remains stationary while the dome moves during early morning twilight.
The setting Moon illuminates the Gemini North telescope through the ventilation gates. The Milky Way is visible through the observing slit and the night sky can be seen reflecting off the 8-meter primary mirror.
The Gemini North telescope from the Canada-France-Hawaii Telescope. The Gemini laser guide star (LGS) can be seen during tests in October 2006. The Keck LGS is also seen at top/right.
The setting full Moon illuminates the inside of the Gemini North dome.
The motion of the Gemini dome blurs the background for the stationary telescope.
The Gemini laser guide star propagates from the Gemini North telescope on Mauna Kea during tests in early December 2006.
Moonlight shines through the observing slit as the Gemini laser guide star propagates on the sky.
The Gemini North laser guide star propagation as seen from the Canada-France-Hawaii Telescope. The faint remains of evening twilight can be seen to the right, and the glow of Hilo to the left, with the summer Milky Way running parallel to the laser.
Star trail image of the Gemini laser guide star as it tracks along with the Earth's rotation. This image was made by stacking multiple 50-second exposures over a period of about 15 minutes. The remains of evening twilight can be seen to the right and the lights of Hilo to the left. Thanks to the Canada-France-Hawaii telescope for access to their catwalk for this image.
