Snapshot coronagraphy with an interferometer in space

Details Snapshot coronagraphy with an interferometer in space Snapshot coronagraphy with an interferometer in space

2000-02-10

arxiv.org/abs/astro-ph/0002222v1

Astronomy and Astrophysics

Astrophysics

23 pages, 10 figures, to appear in Icarus

Scientific paper

10.1006/icar.2000.6347

Diluted arrays of many optical apertures will be able to provide h igh-resolution snapshot images if the beams are combined according to the densified-pupil scheme. We show that the same principle can also provide coronagraphic images, for detecting faint sources near a bright unresolved one. Recent refinements of coronagraphic techniques, i.e. the use of a phase mask, active apodization and dark-speckle analysis, are also applicable for enhanced contrast. Implemented in the form of a proposed 50-500m Exo-Earth Discoverer array in space, the principle can serve to detect Earth-like exo-planets in the infra-red. It can also provide images of faint nebulosity near stars, active galactic nuclei and quasars. Calculations indicate that exo-planets are detectable amidst the zodiacal and exo-zodiacal emission faster than with a Bracewell array of equivalent area, a consequence of the spatial selectivity in the image.

Affiliated with

Also associated with

No associations

Rating

Snapshot coronagraphy with an interferometer in space does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this scientific paper.

If you have personal experience with Snapshot coronagraphy with an interferometer in space, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Snapshot coronagraphy with an interferometer in space will most certainly appreciate the feedback.

Rate now

Comments { 0 }

Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-445642