Comparison of space- and ground-based optical interferometry

Alain H. Greenaway

doi:10.1117/12.213005

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26 June 1995 Comparison of space- and ground-based optical interferometry

Alain H. Greenaway

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Proceedings Volume 2477, Spaceborne Interferometry II; (1995) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.213005
Event: SPIE's 1995 Symposium on OE/Aerospace Sensing and Dual Use Photonics, 1995, Orlando, FL, United States

Abstract

At visible frequencies the comparative sensitivity achieved from space-borne or terrestrial interferometers depends on source brightness, source complexity and on the waveband considered. At short wavelengths a space-borne instrument is always superior and at longer `visible' wavelengths (up to K-Band) a space-borne instrument is superior for faint and/or complex targets. At thermal infrared wavelengths the sensitivity comparison depends on source brightness but not its complexity. A space-borne interferometer gives superior sensitivity at M-Band and between atmospheric transmission windows. To obtain adequate sensitivity at N-Band and longer wavelengths a space-borne interferometer cooled below 80 degree(s)K is required.

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Alain H. Greenaway "Comparison of space- and ground-based optical interferometry", Proc. SPIE 2477, Spaceborne Interferometry II, (26 June 1995); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.213005

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