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About

Jan Kragt is a key figure in precision astronomical instrumentation, specializing in the development of high-resolution spectrographs for exoplanet detection. Their most notable contribution is the design and construction of HARPS3, a cutting-edge echelle spectrogset to be installed on the roboticized Isaac Newton Telescope. This instrument, with its resolving power of ~115,000 and wavelength coverage from 380–690 nm, is engineered for extreme radial velocity precision, enabling the discovery and characterization of Earth-like exoplanets. Kragt’s work on HARPS3, detailed in their 2016 paper (34 citations), demonstrates their expertise in optimizing spectrograph stability and throughput for long-term robotic operations. Beyond this flagship project, Kragt has contributed to the broader field of astronomical optics and instrument automation, ensuring that next-generation telescopes can deliver reliable, high-fidelity data. Their achievements underscore a commitment to pushing the boundaries of exoplanet science through innovative engineering, making them a vital collaborator in the search for habitable worlds.