Enrico Pfueller

I currently lead the development of a Shack-Hartmann instrument for SOFIA. This includes the coordination of work packages between involved the teams and overseeing the finalization of the mechanical and optical design. I prepare and maintain the requirements documents and project schedule as well as interface control documents, test plans and procedures.

I lead the operation and development of the FPI+ science instrument, a high-speed photometer in the visible wavelength spectrum for observations of stellar occultations. I developed the software tools for image acquisitions and data processing. I lead an upgrade effort of the FPI+ to increase the efficiency. I have operated the FPI+ during 27 SOFIA missions. I collaborate with astronomers and advise the ideal instrument configuration for observations and assist with image processing and data analysis.

I lead the operation and development of the fast diagnostic camera system. The FDC is a high-speed camera in the visible wavelength spectrum that is used for engineering tasks onboard SOFIA. I developed the software tools for image acquisitions and for image data processing using Python and Matlab programming languages. I operate the FDC in flight during SOFIA missions. At the conclusion of each mission, I process the image data and I assist with data analysis.

I developed the Fast Diagnostic Camera, an optical diagnostic system to verify improvements in the telescope control system. The camera was installed permanently on the telescope and is now used for engineering tests, as target acquisition and tracking camera and as a science instrument.