Index Cfai
ALASTAIR BASDEN
WHO I AM
I develop astronomical adaptive optics (AO) systems and associated technologies. Adaptive optics is a technology that tries to remove the twinkle from stars, and is used on most large telescopes. I develop simulations of adaptive optics systems, and also real-time control systems which are necessary since the atmosphere is always changing, and thus the twinkle changes too. I also investigate low noise camera technologies and develop algorithms to improve adaptive optics performance
My publications on Google Scholar
My CV (available on request)
STUFF I DO
I work on several aspects of the Durham AO programme.
DARC
DASP
CANARY
GranCANARY
Detectors
E-ELT
AO
Outreach
DARC
I am the lead developer of the Durham AO Real-time Controller (DARC). DARC is a highly regarded general purpose controller for AO systems, suitable for operation of any AO type and system size.
DASP
I lead development of the Durham AO Simulation Platform (DASP). DASP is used for modelling of current and future AO systems.
CANARY
I help to develop the CANARY AO on-sky demonstrator instrument. CANARY is the World’s foremost on-sky AO demonstrator.
GRANCANARY
I am the PI of a proposal to develop a novel wide-field AO system for the 10.4m Gran Telescopio de Canarias (GranTeCan).
DETECTORS
I lead the low light level detector laboratory at Durham, lead integration of cameras and wavefront sensor systems, and perform modelling and simulation of detectors.
E-ELT
I perform modelling and simulation for proposed instruments for the forthcoming European Extremely Large Telescope, including for MOSAIC, HIRES and MAORY.
AO
I develop algorithms to improve the performance of adaptive optics.
OUTREACH
I am a member of the Durham portable planetarium team, and regularly visit local schools and community groups.
BEYOND AO
I am a father with 2 children and a wonderful wife. I am a Christian attending a local church. I am a Cub Scout leader.