Comparison of linear and rotationally shearing interferometric layouts for extrasolar planet detection from space.
We use the point spread function and the modulation transfer function (MTF) as two figures-of-merit to evaluate the performance of the multiaperture interferometric configurations for the detection of a faint planet in the vicinity of its bright star. We design nonredundant interferometric layouts that provide satisfactory coverage of the spatial frequencies of interest. We propose a design incorporating a rotating, rotationally shearing interferometer in a gravity-free environment and compare its performance with the Earth-based, fixed, linear configurations. The side peak of its MTF may be centered on the coordinate associated with a likely planet spatial frequency, resulting in planet signal enhancement and isolation.
Centro de Investigaciones en Optica, Apdo. Postal 1-948, C. P. 37000 Leon, Guanajuato, Mexico. mstrojnik@aol.com
Marija
M
Strojnik
Gonzalo
G
Paez