Towards the Intensity Interferometry Stellar Imaging System

TL;DR

This paper discusses the potential of using large arrays of Cherenkov telescopes for intensity interferometry to achieve high-resolution stellar imaging and explore quantum optics applications in astronomy.

Contribution

It proposes a novel approach to repurpose gamma-ray Cherenkov telescope arrays for intensity interferometry, filling a high-resolution imaging gap in optical astronomy.

Findings

High angular resolution (< 0.1mas) achievable with proposed system

Large baseline arrays enable detailed stellar imaging

First steps toward quantum optics applications in astronomy

Abstract

The imminent availability of large arrays of large light collectors deployed to exploit atmospheric Cherenkov radiation for gamma-ray astronomy at more than 100GeV, motivates the growing interest in application of intensity interferometry in astronomy. Indeed, planned arrays numbering up to one hundred telescopes will offer close to 5,000 baselines, ranging from less than 50m to more than 1000m. Recent and continuing signal processing technology developments reinforce this interest. Revisiting Stellar Intensity Interferometry for imaging is well motivated scientifically. It will fill the short wavelength (B/V bands) and high angular resolution (< 0.1mas) gap left open by amplitude interferometers. It would also constitute a first and important step toward exploiting quantum optics for astronomical observations, thus leading the way for future observatories. In this paper we outline science cases, technical approaches and schedule for an intensity interferometer to be constructed and operated in the visible using gamma-ray astronomy Air Cherenkov Telescopes as receivers.