Planet detection around a bright star is dependent on the resolution of the imaging system and the degree of light suppression of the star relative to the planet. We present a concept and a scaled precursor for a visible light Terrestrial Planet Finding (VTPF) mission. Its major feature is an imaging system for planet detection using a nulling interferometer behind a single aperture telescope. This configuration is capable of detecting earth-like planets with a 4m aperture using both imaging and spectroscopic imaging modes. We will describe the principles of the system, and show results of studies demonstrating its feasibility.

Date Published: 26 February 2003
PDF: 9 pages
Proc. SPIE 4852, Interferometry in Space, (26 February 2003); doi: 10.1117/12.460925

Published in SPIE Proceedings Vol. 4852:
Interferometry in Space
Michael Shao, Editor(s)