The first screws of the mount of the italian Interferometric BIdimensional Spectrometer - IBIS 2.0 have been driven onto the hull of the THEMIS spectrograph. This is the first step of the installation of IBIS2.0 at THEMIS. IBIS2.0 is an outstanding synergic complement of THEMIS long slit spectrograph, which will enhance THEMIS competitiveness in the 1-1.5m solar telescope category, providing strong scientific capabilities.

During a preparatory visit at THEMIS, engineers of different laboratory of the Italian National Institute for Astrophysics (INAF), from Milan, Trieste and Roma, have started to assemble the first pieces of the optical bench of IBIS. IBIS will use an alternative beam path provided by THEMIS after the adaptive optics. The beam will exit the THEMIS spectrograph hull and feed IBIS, which will be mounted vertically on THEMIS.

The upgraded version of IBIS shall be installed at the THEMIS telescope during the spring of 2026.