Dynamics of an Occulter Based Planet Finding Telescope

Astronomy and Astrophysics – Astronomy

Scientific paper

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Scientific paper

Recently, the idea of using a large occulter with a conventional telescope in space has resurfaced and is gaining attention as an alternative approach to imaging extrasolar earthlike planets. One such concept involves the formation flying of a telescope on the order of 2 to 4 meter diameter with a large occulter, roughly 30 m across and 50,000 km away. The recent progress in optimal shaped pupil apodization has made the manufacture of such a starshade feasible. This approach to planet imaging eliminates all of the precision optical requirements that exist in the alternative coronagraphic or interferometric approaches. However, it introduces the difficult problem of controlling and realigning the satellite formation. In this poster, we outline various approaches to the trajectory design of the satellite and occulter to minimize fuel consumption throughout the mission. Using optimal control techniques, we find feasible mission scenarios that allow a full planet finding mission with acceptable cost.

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