How do you ensure accurate photometric or spectrophotometric calibration during observations?

Sample interview questions: How do you ensure accurate photometric or spectrophotometric calibration during observations?

Sample answer:

Accurate Photometric and Spectrophotometric Calibration During Observations

  1. Regular Flat Field Correction:
  2. Acquire images of a uniformly illuminated target to correct for pixel-to-pixel sensitivity variations.
  3. Ensure the flat field is taken under identical conditions (exposure time, focus, etc.) as the science data.

  4. Bias Frame Subtraction:

  5. Collect a series of images with the telescope shutter closed to remove dark current and electronic offsets.
  6. Subtract the bias frame from all science data to eliminate systematic errors.

  7. Dark Frame Correction:

  8. Obtain images with the telescope shutter closed and a dark slide in place to account for thermal noise and cosmic ray hits.
  9. Subtract the dark frame from science data to reduce background noise.

  10. Use Standard Stars for Photometric Calibration:

  11. Observe well-characterized standard stars with known magnitudes to calibrate the photometric system.
  12. Compare the measured magnitudes to known values and apply corrections … Read full answer

    Source: https://hireabo.com/job/5_4_6/Telescope%20Operator

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