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Optimal one-dimensional apodizations and shaped pupils for planet finding coronagraphy.
N Jeremy Kasdin1, Robert J Vanderbei, Michael G Littman
1Princeton University, Princeton, New Jersey 08544, USA. jkasdin@princeton.edu
Applied Optics
|March 16, 2005
Summary
New shaped pupil coronagraphs offer a path to directly image exoplanets. Bar-code masks provide high contrast and throughput, simplifying manufacturing for future space telescope missions.
Area of Science:
- Astronomy and Astrophysics
- Optical Engineering
Background:
- Direct imaging of extrasolar planets is becoming technologically feasible.
- High-contrast imaging techniques are crucial for detecting exoplanets.
Purpose of the Study:
- To survey one-dimensional shaped pupil designs for high-contrast imaging.
- To introduce and evaluate a novel "bar-code mask" design.
Main Methods:
- Developed and analyzed various one-dimensional shaped pupil coronagraph designs.
- Introduced and characterized "bar-code masks" for exoplanet imaging.
Main Results:
- A comprehensive survey of existing and new shaped pupil designs was conducted.
- Bar-code masks demonstrate potential for high contrast and throughput.
- Bar-code masks are noted for their manufacturing simplicity.
Conclusions:
- Shaped pupil coronagraphs, particularly bar-code masks, are promising for direct exoplanet imaging.
- The ease of manufacturing for bar-code masks may facilitate their implementation in future instruments.