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The low number of photons to be gathered from the planets, high contrast with the star and small angular resolution are the major difficulties for a direct detection. However, nulling interferometry seems to be a solution to tackle these challenges. By combining the light of two or more telescopes, we would considerably increase the angular resolution, and thus could potentially lead to the detection of Earth-size rocky exoplanets around Solar-type stars. Moreover, with a π- phase shift between the two interferometer arms, the starlight is reduced which allows the detection of much fainter objects around the star. In this paper it will be presented the development of a new mission based on nulling interferometry and dedicated to the Alpha Centauri system. As our nearest stellar system, it is a prime target to investigate for the research of new worlds. Monte-Carlo simulations about potential exoplanet yield of such an interferometer will be described, for different assumptions such as the detection wavelength and telescope size. Single-mode fibers and integrated optics will also be investigated for this mission. This could lead to low-cost type missions with a high potential of scientific return.
Potential of balloon payloads for in flight validation of direct and nulling interferometry concepts
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