We have carried out a conceptual design study for a near-infrared
(NIR) wide-field camera and a mid-infrared (MIR) camera-spectrograph
for a 2.5 m telescope at Dome C. The main scientific drivers are the
characterisation of young embedded objects, the evolution of
crystalline silicates in circumstellar disks and the observation of
exoplanet secondary transits. Both instrument exploit the unique
features of Dome C: improved infrared transmission, reduced sky
background, superb seeing, low temperature, and increased
atmospheric stability. The NIR camera covers the wavelength range
0.8–5.5 μm and is optimized for the Kdark and L
bands. The MIR instrument is sensitive in the range 7–40 μm
with a possible extension to the sub-mm. It is optimized for the
Q window, including the Q+ extended portion (25–40 μm) only
observable from the Antarctic Plateau.