Planetary system, star formation, and black hole science with non-redundant masking on space telescopes

TL;DR

This paper discusses non-redundant masking (NRM) as a high-resolution, high-contrast technique for space telescopes, emphasizing its potential for studying planetary systems, star formation, and extragalactic phenomena.

Contribution

It evaluates the realistic contrast limits of NRM in space and explores its scientific applications in planet formation, star formation, and extragalactic astronomy in the UV-NIR range.

Findings

NRM provides the highest angular resolution possible with space telescopes.

NRM offers precise information on telescope optical states.

Assessing NRM contrast limits is crucial for maximizing science yield.

Abstract

Non-redundant masking (NRM) is a high contrast, high resolution technique relevant to future space missions concerned with extrasolar planetary system and star formation, as well as general high angular resolution galactic and extragalactic astronomy. NRM enables the highest angular resolution science possible given the telescope's diameter and operating wavelength. It also provides precise information on a telescope's optical state. We must assess NRM contrast limits realistically to understand the science yield of NRM in space, and, simultaneously, develop NRM science for planet and star formation and extragalactic science in the UV-NIR, to help steer high resolution space-based astronomy in the coming decade.