Astronomical Science with Adaptive Optics at the W. M. Keck Observatory

The first refereed science papers based on data with the Keck II natural guide star (NGS) and laser guide star (LGS) adaptive optics (AO) system were published in 2000 January and 2005 May, respectively. As of the end of 2012 a total of 260 refereed science papers have been published based on Keck NGS AO data and 152 with the Keck LGS AO system. This paper provides an overview of the first dozen years of scientific productivity with Keck AO and the lessons that can be drawn from this experience. The performance and limitations of the existing Keck AO systems are also discussed along with the technical developments currently underway to improve the scientific reach of these systems. The Keck AO capabilities are in high demand by a broad science community, a community that has expanded as new capabilities, especially LGS AO, have been added. Online material: color figures