SPHERE instrumentation software: a progress report

SPHERE INS is the software devoted to the control of the SPHERE "Planet Finder Instrument". SPHERE is a second generation instrument for the VLT whose prime objective is the discovery and study of new extra-solar giant planets orbiting nearby stars. The instrument is currently assembled and being tested. It is expected to undergo Preliminary Acceptance in Europe before the end of 2012. SPHERE INS, besides controlling the instrument functions, implements all observation, calibration and maintenance procedures. It includes on-line data reduction procedures, necessary during observations and calibrations, as well as quick-look procedures that allow monitoring the status of ongoing observations. SPHERE INS also manages the external interfaces with the VLT Telescope Control Software, the High-level Observing Software and the Data Handling System. It provides both observing and engineering graphical user interfaces. In this paper we give a brief review of the SPHERE INS design. We then report about the current status of the software, the activities concerning its integration with the Instrument and the testing and validation procedures.