The RISTRETTO simulator: Exoplanet reflected spectra

TL;DR

This paper presents a detailed simulation of the Ristretto spectrograph's expected output spectra for exoplanet atmospheres, aiding in its design and scientific planning.

Contribution

It introduces a comprehensive Python-based simulation framework for Ristretto's spectra, enabling assessment of its capabilities before deployment.

Findings

Synthetic spectra closely mimic real Ristretto data

Simulation helps evaluate detection limits for exoplanet atmospheres

Framework supports optimization of instrument design

Abstract

The upcoming Ristretto spectrograph is dedicated to the detection and analysis of exoplanetary atmospheres, with a primary focus on the temperate rocky world Proxima b. This scientific endeavor relies on the interplay of a high-contrast adaptive optics (AO) system and a high-resolution echelle spectrograph. In this work, I present a comprehensive simulation of Ristretto's output spectra, employing the Python package Pyechelle. Starting from realistic spectra of both exoplanets and their host stars, I generate synthetic 2D spectra to closely resemble those that will be produced by Ristretto itself. These synthetic spectra are subsequently treated as authentic data and therefore analyzed. These simulations facilitate not only the investigation of potential exoplanetary atmospheres but also an in-depth assessment of the inherent capabilities and limitations of the Ristretto spectrograph.