Astronomy and Astrophysics – Astrophysics
Scientific paper
Dec 1992
adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=1992esasp.354...59r&link_type=abstract
In ESA, Targets for Space-Based Interferometry p 59-69 (SEE N93-31750 12-89)
Astronomy and Astrophysics
Astrophysics
Astrometry, Astronomical Interferometry, Interferometers, Optical Measurement, Spaceborne Astronomy, Spacecraft Design, Accuracy, Apertures, Astrophysics, Instrument Errors, Pointing Control Systems, Space Missions, Systems Engineering
Scientific paper
POINTS, a dual space-based astrometric optical interferometer with nominal baseline length of 2 meters and measurement accuracy of 5 microarcseconds, which could be a powerful new multidisciplinary research tool is introduced. The instrument, including the laser gauges which are a central aspect of the instrument, are described. The design of the spacecraft, and the mission operations, including the bias determination and correction, are discussed. As a candidate for the Astrometric Interferometry Mission (AIM) mission, POINTS could open new areas of astrophysical research and change the nature of the questions being asked in some old areas. As a candidate for the TOPS-1 (Towards Other Planetary Systems) mission, it could be used to perform a definitive search for extra solar planetary systems, either finding and characterizing a large number of them or showing that they are far less numerous than now believed. POINTS, which is small, agile, and mechanically simple, would be the first of a new class of powerful instruments in space and would prove the technology for the larger members of that class to follow.
Babcock Robert W.
Noecker Martin Charles
Phillips Dane J.
Reasenberg Robert D.
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