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Updated: Jun 30, 2025
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Simulating Imaging of Large Scale Radio Arrays on the Lunar Surface
Published on: July 30, 2020
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Infrared astronomy beyond JWST: the Moon perspective
1Institut d'Astrophysique de Paris, UMR 7095, CNRS,U. Pierre and Marie Curie, Sorbonne Université, 98bis Bld Arago,75014 Paris, France.
Summary
A large infrared telescope on the Moon, twice the size of the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), is proposed for robotic deployment. This lunar observatory aims for superior spatial and spectral resolution, leveraging the Moon's cold temperatures for enhanced sensitivity in infrared astronomy.
Area of Science:
- Astronomy
- Astrophysics
- Infrared Astronomy
Background:
- Previous concepts for lunar infrared observatories were presented.
- The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) demonstrated advancements in infrared observation capabilities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To revisit and specify a realistic concept for a large infrared lunar telescope.
- To surpass JWST in spatial resolution, spectral resolution, spectral coverage, and sensitivity.
Main Methods:
- Designing a 13-meter diameter infrared telescope to fit within a cargo launcher fairing for robotic lunar deployment.
- Identifying optimal lunar sites for passive cooling, targeting temperatures colder than JWST's L2 orbit.
Main Results:
- A feasible design for a large infrared lunar telescope deployable from a single launch is conceptualized.
- Potential lunar locations offer passive cooling advantages over existing space-based observatories.
Conclusions:
- A lunar-based infrared observatory offers significant advantages for future astronomical research.
- Development requires addressing specific technical and logistical requirements for lunar implementation.
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