Overview of LBTI: A Multipurpose Facility for High Spatial Resolution Observations

Abstract: The Large Binocular Telescope Interferometer (LBTI) is a high spatial resolution instrument developed for coherent imaging and nulling interferometry using the 14.4 m baseline of the 2×8.4 m LBT. The unique telescope design, comprising of the dual apertures on a common elevation-azimuth mount, enables a broad use of observing modes. The full system is comprised of dual adaptive optics systems, a near-infrared phasing camera, a 1-5 micrometer camera (called LMIRCam), and an 8-13 micrometer cam…