[en] One of the main goals of exoplanet science is to characterize the atmosphere of rocky exoplanets in the habitable zone of nearby stars. A space-based nulling interferometry, observing in the mid-infrared (3-20 μm), is considered to be one of the most promising solutions to tackle this observing challenge. The LIFE project, a free-flying space-based mid-infrared nulling interferometer, would have this capability. However, several key technologies need to be demonstrated before launching such an ambitious mission. A small space-based mission can be considered as a useful prerequisite. In this paper, we consider three small satellite architectures, two CubeSats, and a PROBA-like satellite. Based on a Bracewell architecture and without free-flying, these monolithic satellites can demonstrate some key components like the null capability and its stability on real targets. The achromatic phase shifter needs also to be demonstrated in space. Based on the scientific capabilities and exoplanet detection yield of these architectures, optical constraints are derived (pointing stability, and optical path difference correction). Orbital simulations, exploring a range of classical orbits for such a satellite, are also discussed.
Research Center/Unit :
CSL - Centre Spatial de Liège - ULiège
Disciplines :
Space science, astronomy & astrophysics
Author, co-author :
Dandumont, Colin ; Université de Liège - ULiège > CSL (Centre Spatial de Liège)
Defrere, Denis ; Katholieke Universiteit Leuven - KUL > Instituut voor Sterrenkunde
Loicq, Jerôme ; Université de Liège - ULiège > CSL (Centre Spatial de Liège)
Language :
English
Title :
Feasibility study of an interferometric Small-Sat to study exoplanets
Alternative titles :
[fr] Etude de faisabilité d'un small sat pour l'étude d'exoplanètes par interférométrie
Publication date :
11 June 2021
Event name :
International Conference on Space Optics — ICSO 2021
Event organizer :
Centre national d'études spatiales (CNES) European Space Agency (ESA)
Event date :
du 30 mars 2021 au 2 avril 2021
Audience :
International
Journal title :
Proceedings of SPIE: The International Society for Optical Engineering
ISSN :
0277-786X
eISSN :
1996-756X
Publisher :
International Society for Optical Engineering, Bellingham, United States - Washington
Special issue title :
International Conference on Space Optics — ICSO 2020
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