An astronomy camera for low background applications in the 1.0 to 2.5 mu m spectral region

A description is given of a low-background astronomy camera system based on a short wavelength (1.0-2.5 mu m) 128*128 focal plane array. The camera is designed to accept either a HgCdTe array for the 1-2.5 mu m spectral region or an InSb array for the 3-5 mu m spectral region. A cryogenic folded optical system is utilized to control excess stray light along with a cold eight-position filter wheel for spectral filtering. The camera head and electronics will also accept a 256*256 focal plane. Engineering evaluation of the system and two engineering runs at the JPL Table Mountain Observatory have been completed. System design, engineering performance, and sample imagery are presented.<>