Scalable photonic-based nulling interferometry with the dispersed multi-baseline GLINT instrument

Area of Science:

• Astronomy and Astrophysics
• Exoplanetary Science
• Optical Interferometry

Background:

• Exoplanet characterization is crucial for understanding planet formation, composition, and potential habitability.
• Nulling interferometry combined with extreme adaptive optics offers a promising approach for exoplanet studies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present an integrated-optic nuller, the Guided-Light Interferometric Nulling Technology (GLINT), designed for scalable, science-ready interferometric nulling.
• To demonstrate the instrument's capability in achieving high null depth and precision for exoplanet characterization.

Main Methods:

• Deployment of the GLINT instrument at the Subaru Telescope.
• Integration of four-beam combination for spatial and spectral information delivery.
• Laboratory testing with simulated seeing and on-sky observations.

Main Results:

• Achieved a null depth better than 10⁻³ with a precision of 10⁻⁴ in laboratory conditions.
• Successfully performed on-sky angular diameter measurements of stars 2.5 times smaller than the telescope's diffraction limit.
• Demonstrated the instrument's capability for precise stellar diameter measurements.

Conclusions:

• The GLINT instrument represents a significant advancement in nulling interferometry for exoplanet characterization.
• The demonstrated performance and scalability pave the way for future enhancements, including more baselines and improved atmospheric aberration handling.
• These advancements will enhance sensitivity and precision in the search for and characterization of exoplanets.