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New Worlds Observer: A Novel Mission Concept for Exoplanetary Studies

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  02 May 2006

Jonathan W. Arenberg
Affiliation:
Northrop Grumman Space Technology, One Space Park Drive, Redondo Beach, CA, 90278, USA email: jon.arenberg@ngc.com
Webster Cash
Affiliation:
Univeristy of Colorado, Center for Space Astrophysics and Astronomy, Boulder, Colorado 80309-0389 USA
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Abstract

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This paper describes a novel concept for the direct detection of exoplanets involving two spacecraft. One spacecraft is an occulter, designed to provide adequate starlight suppression within its shadow. The second spacecraft, a conventional telescope of standard quality, is flown into the shadow of the first and used to collect the light from the target planet. The design of the occulter and its expected performance are discussed. It is shown that is possible to simultaneously achieve the necessary contrast ratios and inner working angles necessary to have a scientifically meaningful mission. A brief discussion of the estimated tolerances indicate that such a mission is feasible in the near term.

Type
Contributed Papers
Copyright
© 2006 International Astronomical Union