Technology for a Mid-IR Flagship Mission to Characterize Earth-like Exoplanets

The exploration of Earth-like exoplanets will be enabled at mid-infrared wavelengths
through technology and engineering advances in nulling interferometry and precision formation
flying. Nulling interferometry provides the dynamic range needed for the detection of
biomarkers. Formation flying provides the angular resolution required in the mid-infrared to
separately distinguish the spectra of planets in multi-planet systems. The flight performance
requirements for nulling have been met and must now be validated in a flight-like environment.
Formation-flying algorithms have been demonstrated in the lab and must now be validated in
space. Our proposed technology program is described.