The Magellan Infrared Multi-Object Spectrograph Project

The Magellan Infrared Multi-Object Spectrograph (MIRMOS) is a nearinfrared (NIR) multi-object spectrograph (MOS) and integral field unit (IFU) instrument concept slated for deployment at the Magellan 6.5-meter telescopes at Las Campanas Observatory. MIRMOS is designed to address frontier scientific questions in extragalactic, cosmological, and exoplanetary science. I will discuss these scientific questions and the resulting instrument specifications and design, including an instantaneous wavelength range from 0.89-2.4 microns with a spectral resolution R>3,700. MIRMOS will support multiple observing modes including an IFU with a 26"x20" field of view and a multi-object mode which uses a robotic slit mask to address a 13' x 3' field. MIRMOS will complement and extend the existing and planned suite of space-based and ground-based infrared spectrographs for the coming decade of scientific exploration