The Pyxis Interferometer (I) : Scientific Context, Metrology System and Optical Design

• Optical interferometry from space is arguably the most exciting prospect for high angular resolution astrophysics; including the analysis of exoplanet atmospheres. This was highlighted in the recent ESA Voyage 2050 plan, which pointed out the exciting potential of this technology, but also indicated the critical need for technological demonstrators. Here we present the Pyxis interferometer; a ground-based pathfinder for a CubeSat space interferometer, currently being built at Mt Stromlo Observatory. We outline its technological and scientific potential as the only visible wavelength interferometer in the Southern Hemisphere, and the optical systems designed to provide CubeSat compatible metrology for formation flying.

Subject headings

NATURVETENSKAP  -- Fysik -- Astronomi, astrofysik och kosmologi (hsv//swe)

NATURAL SCIENCES  -- Physical Sciences -- Astronomy, Astrophysics and Cosmology (hsv//eng)

TEKNIK OCH TEKNOLOGIER  -- Maskinteknik -- Rymd- och flygteknik (hsv//swe)

ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY  -- Mechanical Engineering -- Aerospace Engineering (hsv//eng)

Keyword

Space Interferometry

Technology Demonstrator

Optical Metrology

Beam Combination

Formation Flying

Integrated Optics

Publication and Content Type

ref (subject category)

kon (subject category)