A multi-object double spectrograph for the large binocular telescope

We are building a Multi-Object Double Spectrograph for the Large Binocular Telescope. The main themes of our planned research with the instrument are the formation and evolution of galaxies and their nuclei and the evolution of targe-scale structure in the universe, although we expect that the spectrograph will be used for many other varieties of programs as well. The science goals for the instrument dictate that it have the highest possible throughput from 320 to 1000 nm, spectral resolutions of 10(3) to 10(4), and multi-object capability over an similar to 6' field. Our design is highly modular, so future upgrades (e.g., additional cameras, new gratings, and integral field units) should be straightforward.