<title>Laser projection system for TNG</title>

Abstract

In the framework of the adaptive optics for TNG the mechanical, optical and engineering aspects of the laser projection system for the TNG are briefly shown. The laser beam is projected through the elevation axis on the Nasmith foci usually devoted for spectroscopic purposes and otherwise unused during imaging scientific activities. The optical design of the projector is also outlined. It is foreseen that in the very first phase a Rayleigh laser will be operated at TNG, later replaced by a mesospheric sodium LGS generator.