Scientists test circular slit spectrometer during solar eclipse
A group of scientists from Padua have spent weeks finishing a prototype called the Circular Slit Spectrometer (CISS) ahead of a decisive test at Spain's Javalambre Astrophysical Observatory during the total solar eclipse on August 12. The prototype uses a circular slit to capture the spectrum of the entire corona at a given distance in a single photograph, unlike older linear scanners that take hours. If the test succeeds, the method could speed corona mapping and inform studies of space weather that can affect communications networks and power grids, and it could lead to a future space mission application.
Prototype spectrometer could map the corona much faster.
Context
Scientists recently completed final assembly of a new prototype instrument. They will test it during the brief totality on August 12. If the test works, they may propose using the principle on a space mission.
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