Spectral characterization of the Herschel SPIRE photometer

Abstract

The European Space Agency's Herschel Space Observatory is comprised of three cryogenically cooled instruments commissioned to explore the far infrared/submillimetre universe. The Spectral and Photometric Imaging REceiver (SPIRE) is one of Herschel's instruments and consists of a three band imaging photometer and a two band imaging spectrometer. Canada is involved in the SPIRE project through provision of instrument development hardware and software, mission flight software, and support personnel. This thesis discusses Fourier transform spectroscopy (FTS) and FTS data processing. A detailed discussion is included on FTS phase correction, with results presented from the optimization of an enhanced Forman phase correction routine developed for this work. This thesis discusses the design, verification, and use of the hardware and software provided by Dr. Naylor's group as it relates to SPIRE verification testing. Results of the photometer characterization are presented. The current status of SPIRE and its future schedule is also discussed.