Novel approach to the fabrication of noncircular apodized aperture ultrasmooth mirrors for exo-planet detection

Peter C. Chen; Robert C. Romeo

doi:10.1117/12.457841

3 March 2003 Novel approach to the fabrication of noncircular apodized-aperture ultrasmooth mirrors for exo-planet detection

Peter C. Chen, Robert C. Romeo

Author Affiliations +

Proceedings Volume 4860, High-Contrast Imaging for Exo-Planet Detection; (2003) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.457841
Event: Astronomical Telescopes and Instrumentation, 2002, Waikoloa, Hawai'i, United States

Abstract

We suggest new approaches towards direct detection, in the near term, of Earth-like planets around Sun-like stars. Optical detection of such 'exo-planets' at visual wavelengths requires telescopes mirrors >1m diameter with very accurate figures, extremely smooth surfaces, and highly unusual shapes. The availability of such mirrors, with reasonable fabrication times and at affordable cost, is an issue of major concern. We describe how composite mirror technology is being developed to meet these very challenging requirements. A number of non-circular mirrors of modest (0.5 to 1.2m) aperture have already been made. We present data on the development and status of a low cost process that can make mirrors of corornagraphic quality with arbitrary shapes, very highly smooth surface, and ultra-low areal density.

Citation Download Citation

Peter C. Chen and Robert C. Romeo "Novel approach to the fabrication of noncircular apodized-aperture ultrasmooth mirrors for exo-planet detection", Proc. SPIE 4860, High-Contrast Imaging for Exo-Planet Detection, (3 March 2003); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.457841

ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE

INSTITUTIONAL
Select your institution to access the SPIE Digital Library.

SELECT YOUR INSTITUTION

PERSONAL
Sign in with your SPIE account to access your personal subscriptions or to use specific features such as save to my library, sign up for alerts, save searches, etc.

PERSONAL SIGN IN

No SPIE Account? Create one

PURCHASE THIS CONTENT

SUBSCRIBE TO DIGITAL LIBRARY

50 downloads per 1-year subscription

Members: $195

Non-members: $335 ADD TO CART

25 downloads per 1 - year subscription

Members: $145

Non-members: $250 ADD TO CART

PURCHASE SINGLE ARTICLE

Includes PDF, HTML & Video, when available