GNOMOS: The Gemini NIR-Optical Multi Object Spectrograph
  This paper is a response to a call for white papers solicited by Gemini
Observatory and its Science and Technology Advisory Committee, to help define
the science case and requirements for a new Gemini instrument, envisaged to
consist of a single-object spectrograph at medium resolution simultaneously
covering optical and near-infrared wavelengths. In this white paper we discuss
the science case for an alternative new instrument, consisting instead of a
multi-object, medium-resolution, high-throughput spectrograph, covering
simultaneously the optical and near-infrared slices of the electromagnetic
spectrum. We argue that combination of wide wavelength coverage at medium
resolution with moderate multiplexing power is an innovative path that will
enable the pursuit of fundamental science questions in a variety of
astrophysical topics, without compromise of the science goals achievable by
single-object spectroscopy on a wide baseline. We present a brief qualitative
discussion of the main features of a notional hardware design that could
conceivably make such an instrument viable.
