Adaptive optics and interferometry on the Antarctic plateau

The unique properties of atmospheric turbulence in atmosphere above the Antarctic plateau offer some compelling advantages for astronomical adaptive optics and interferometry. The shallow nature of the turbulent layer at the South Pole results in low scintillation and large angular coherence (Marks et al. 1996, 1999; Lloyd, Oppenheimer, & Graham 2002; Lloyd et al. 2003). Recent wintertime SODAR measurements at Dome C indicate that similar conditions exist at Dome C, but that the turbulent layer is likely both weaker and shallower. This paper discusses the outcomes of such conditions on the atmospheric properties for astronomy. Particularly due to the low wind speed at Dome C, the atmospheric properties are highly favorable for adaptive optics and interferometry. The resulting long coherence time enables adaptive optics at visible wavelengths, and the large angular coherence results in a useful field of view as a result.