Optical interferometry and aperture synthesis in space with the Space Interferometry Mission

Ronald J. Allen; Torsten Boeker

doi:10.1117/12.317165

24 July 1998 Optical interferometry and aperture synthesis in space with the Space Interferometry Mission

Ronald J. Allen, Torsten Boeker

Proceedings Volume 3350, Astronomical Interferometry; (1998) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.317165
Event: Astronomical Telescopes and Instrumentation, 1998, Kona, HI, United States

Abstract

The Space Interferometry Mission (SIM) promises to revolutionize optical astrometry with its extraordinary astrometric accuracy of 4μas. The fringe phase stability required to provide this accuracy (≈ 0.14°) will also enable a unique and unprecedented capability for high-dynamic-range synthesis imaging in space at optical wavelengths with an angular resolution of typically 10 milliarcseconds. We summarize the characteristics of the imaging mode of SIM and compare it to ground-based synthesis imaging instruments, which operate only at radio wavelengths. In some respects SIM is an optical version of the Westerbork Synthesis Radio Telescope in the Netherlands.

Citation Download Citation

Ronald J. Allen and Torsten Boeker "Optical interferometry and aperture synthesis in space with the Space Interferometry Mission", Proc. SPIE 3350, Astronomical Interferometry, (24 July 1998); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.317165

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