AMICA (Antarctic Multiband Infrared CAmera) is an instrument designed to perform astronomical
imaging in the near- (1-5 μm) and
mid- (5–27 μm) infrared wavelength regions. Equipped with two detectors, an InSb 2562 and a Si:As 1282 IBC,
cooled at 35 and 7 K respectively, it will be the first instrument to investigate the potential of the Italian-French
base Concordia for IR astronomy.
The main technical challenge is represented by the extreme conditions of Dome C
(T ~ -90 °C, p ~ 640 mbar). An environmental control system
ensures the correct start-up, shut-down and housekeeping of the various components of the camera.
AMICA will be mounted on the IRAIT telescope and will perform survey-mode
observations in the Southern sky. The first task is to provide important site-quality data. Substantial
contributions to the solution of fundamental
astrophysical quests, such as those related to late phases of stellar evolution and to star formation processes, are also
expected.