TPF-C Technology Plan - Exoplanet Exploration Program - NASA

Optics and Starlight Suppression Technology
Figure 3-14. Laboratory results from the HCIT showing an average contrast of 1.2x10 -9 for laser
light, as measured in the half dark hole over angles from 4 to 10 λ/D.
Figure 3-15. Laboratory results from the HCIT showing an average contrast of 0.9 × 10 -9 for
laser light, as measured in the half dark hole over angles from 4 to 10 λ/D.
Details of the error sources, including whether individual errors will be introduced at fixed or
variable levels, will be determined during the study phase.
The PDS is also expected to include a planet simulator. Current experiments on the HCIT
demonstrate starlight suppression by comparing the intensity of a dark hole image to the original
source. The planet simulator would provide a weak source of calibrated intensity alongside the
simulated star source; the weak source could then be directly observed in the HCIT when the
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