Graded coronagraphic masks for high-contrast near-infrared imaging

Joseph C. Carson; Daniel W Wilson; John T. Trauger

doi:10.1117/12.615935

5 October 2005 Graded coronagraphic masks for high-contrast near-infrared imaging

Joseph C. Carson, Daniel W Wilson, John T. Trauger

Proceedings Volume 5905, Techniques and Instrumentation for Detection of Exoplanets II; 59051D (2005) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.615935
Event: Optics and Photonics 2005, 2005, San Diego, California, United States

Abstract

We present here results from an experimental and theoretical study in the use of graded focal-plane occulting masks to improve high-contrast astronomical imaging at near-infrared wavelengths. The study includes investigations of both high-energy beam sensitive (HEBS) glass (a product of Canyon Materials, San Diego, CA) and binary notch-filter technologies to create precision graded occulting masks. In conjunction with this investigation, we conduct computer simulations showing expected high-contrast levels for various graded masks being considered for installation in the PHARO camera of the Palomar 200-inch (5m) Hale Telescope Adaptive Optics (AO) system. Our results demonstrate that the implementation of a graded exponential mask in the Palomar system should improve high-contrast sensitivities by about 2.4-mag in K-band (2.0-2.4 μm), for 0.75-1.5 arcsec separations. We also demonstrate that both HEBS and binary notch-filter technologies present adequate platforms for necessary occulting requirements. We conclude with a discussion of theinsights our study yields for planned space-based high-contrast observatories such as NASA's planned Terrestrial Planet Finder Coronagraph (TPF-C) and the proposed Eclipse mission.

Citation Download Citation

Joseph C. Carson, Daniel W Wilson, and John T. Trauger "Graded coronagraphic masks for high-contrast near-infrared imaging", Proc. SPIE 5905, Techniques and Instrumentation for Detection of Exoplanets II, 59051D (5 October 2005); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.615935

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