MIRI Imaging TSOs
JWST MIRI currently has limited support for time-series observations (TSOs) with the imager.
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The MIRI imager has limited support for high precision imaging photometry in time-series observations (TSOs). Available capabilities and limitations for such observations are described below.
Sensitivity and saturation
See also: MIRI Sensitivity, MIRI Bright Source Limits
Sensitivities and saturation limits are available in the description of MIRI Predicted Performance.
Users should always refer to the Exposure Time Calculator (ETC) for the most accurate signal-to-noise calculations.
Dithering
See also: MIRI Imaging Dithering
Contrary to regular imaging observations, TSOs should be carried out without dithering to maintain target position on the same pixels throughout the observation.
Words in bold are GUI menus/
panels or data software packages;
bold italics are buttons in GUI
tools or package parameters.
Filters and subarrays
See also: MIRI Filters and Dispersers, MIRI Detector Subarrays
All filters available for general MIRI imaging observations can be selected for TSOs.
Target acquisition
See also: MIRI Imaging Target Acquisition, JWST Pointing Performance
Target acquisition with the MIRI imager, whilst recommended for TSOs, is not currently supported. Placement accuracy of the target in the field will be determined by the telescope's blind pointing capability.
Exposure time limitations
See also: JWST Exposure Time Calculator Overview
Regular (non-TSO) MIRI imager observations have an exposure time limit of 10,000 s for a single exposure. For TSOs, this limitation can be waived to allow observations of long time-variable phenomena in a single exposure, which is optimal for stability and photometric precision. Selecting Time Series Observation in the Special Requirements pane in APT enables this waiver.
Imaging TSOs in APT
See also: MIRI Imaging TSOs
MIRI imaging observing proposals for TSOs should use the standard MIRI imaging template, then select the Time Series Observation and No Parallel special requirements to enable the optimal TSO functionality. This will waive the exposure time limit.