Tests of achromatic phase shifters performed on the SYNAPSE test bench: a progress report

Gabor, Pavel; Schüller, Peter; Chazelas, Bruno; Decaudin, M.; Labéque, A.; Duret, Philippe; Rabbia, Yves; Launhardt, R.; Gay, J.; Sodnik, Zoran; Barillot, Marc; Brachet, Frank; Thomas, L.; Jacquinod, S.; Vandormael, Denis; Loicq, Jérôme; Mawet, Dimitri; Ollivier, M.; Léger, Alain

doi:10.1117/12.789269

SPIE Proceedings

2008

DOI: 10.1117/12.789269

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Tests of achromatic phase shifters performed on the SYNAPSE test bench: a progress report

Pavel Gabor

Peter Schüller

Bruno Chazelas³

et al.

Abstract: The achromatic phase shifter (APS) is a component of the Bracewell nulling interferometer studied in preparation for future space missions (viz. Darwin/TPF-I) focusing on spectroscopic study of Earth-like exo-planets. Several possible designs of such an optical subsystem exist. Four approaches were selected for further study. Thales Alenia Space developed a dielectric prism APS. A focus crossing APS prototype was developed by the OCA, Nice, France. A field reversal APS prototype was prepared by the MPIA in Hei… Show more

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Cited by 3 publications

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Achromatic phase shifters for nulling interferometry

Rabbia

Bascou²

2017

International Conference on Space Optics — ICSO 2000

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In the search for extra-solar Earth-like planets, nulling interferometry is required. This technique provides the extinction of the light from the parent star so as to "see" objects in its immediate vicinity. This nulling process is based on appropriate phase shifts applied to the collected waves made to destructively interfere. These phase shifts must be performed in the thermal infrared domain and must be achromatic so as to enable working on a large bandwidth. After briefly recalling the principle of nulling interferometry, we state what should mean "achromatic" in the context and we present various techniques potentially able to meet the stated requirements. Critical points and interesting features of the presented techniques are outlined.

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Achromatic phase shifters for nulling interferometry

Rabbia

Bascou²

2017

International Conference on Space Optics — ICSO 2000

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Single spacecraft nulling interferometer for exoplanets: preliminary concept

Loicq,

Defrère,

Laugier

et al. 2024

Optical and Infrared Interferometry and Imaging IX

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One of the most ambitious goals of modern astronomy is to uncover signs of extraterrestrial biological activity, primarily achieved through spectroscopic analysis of light emitted by exoplanets to identify specific atmospheric molecules. Most exoplanets are indirectly identified through techniques like transit or Doppler shift of the host star's flux. Long-term surveys have yielded statistical insights into the occurrence rates of different planet types based on factors such as radius/mass, orbital period, and the spectral type of the host star. Initial estimates of terrestrial planets within the habitable zone have also emerged. However, the difficulty of detecting light from these exoplanets leaves much unknown about their nature, formation, and evolution. As the number of rocky exoplanets around nearby stars rises, questions about their atmospheric composition, evolutionary trajectory, and habitability increase. Direct measurement of an exoplanet's atmospheric composition through its spectral signature in the infrared can provide answers. Measuring the infrared spectrum of these planets poses significant challenges due to the star/planet contrast and very small angular separation from their host stars. Previous research showed that space-based telescopes are mandatory, and unless large primary mirrors (>30m in diameter) can be sent into space, interferometric techniques become essential. Combining light from distant telescopes with interferometric techniques allows access to information at minimal angular separation, operating within the diffraction limit of individual telescopes. Successful demonstrations of on-ground nulling interferometry open a new era for such space-based missions. They are vital to sidestep and tackle these scientific questions. We recently initiated a new study with the European Space Agency to explore the design parameters and the performances related to an interferometric concept based on a single spacecraft and sparse multiple sub-apertures. Launch constraints are linked to the use of an Ariane 6 launch vehicle. Our parametric study covers a range of 1-4 m for the diameter of the telescope and a 10-60 m baseline. The most promising concept working in the infrared range (3-20μm) will be highlighted. This study is conducted by TUDelft in cooperation with KULeuven, CSL/ULiège, and Amos with the support of the European Space Agency.

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The NULLTIMATE test bench: achromatic phase shifters for nulling interferometry

et al. 2010

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Tests of achromatic phase shifters performed on the SYNAPSE test bench: a progress report

Cited by 3 publications

References 16 publications

Achromatic phase shifters for nulling interferometry

Achromatic phase shifters for nulling interferometry

Single spacecraft nulling interferometer for exoplanets: preliminary concept

The NULLTIMATE test bench: achromatic phase shifters for nulling interferometry

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