Overview of the SIM PlanetQuest Light (SIM-Lite) mission concept
R. Goullioud, J. H. Catanzarite, F. G. Dekens, M. Shao, J. C. Marr IV

TL;DR
SIM-Lite is a space-based astrometric instrument designed for high-precision measurements, capable of detecting Earth-mass planets and performing detailed astrophysical observations with micro-arc-second accuracy.
Contribution
This paper introduces the SIM-Lite concept, detailing its design, technological basis, and expected performance for high-precision astrometry and exoplanet detection.
Findings
Achieves 1 micro-arc-second astrometry on bright stars
Detects Earth-mass planets within 3-year orbits around nearby stars
Provides high-precision measurements for astrophysical objects
Abstract
The Space Interferometry Mission PlanetQuest Light (or SIM-Lite) is a new concept for a space borne astrometric instrument, to be located in a solar Earth-trailing orbit. SIM-Lite utilizes technology developed over the past ten years for the SIM mission. The instrument consists of two Michelson stellar interferometers and a precision telescope. The first interferometer chops between the target star and a set of Reference stars. The second interferometer monitors the attitude of the instrument in the direction of the target star. The telescope monitors the attitude of the instrument in the other two directions. SIM-Lite will be capable of one micro-arc-second narrow angle astrometry on magnitude 6 or brighter stars, relative to magnitude 9 Reference stars in a two degree field. During the 5 year mission, SIM-Lite would search 65 nearby stars for planets of masses down to one Earth…
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