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Precise astrometry: Earth Analogs and Beyond

Experimental Astronomy volume 54, pages 1339–1350 (2022)Cite this article

Abstract

A long-baseline, space-based Michelson interferometer will be able to detect Earth Analog planets orbiting nearby G stars. The Star Watch astrometry observatory is capable of providing 1 micro-arcsecond (µas) measurements during individual observations. Over a series of “looks”, a precision of 0.3 µas can be achieved. Hardware was constructed and validated to a TRL-6 readiness level during NASA’s Space Interferometry Mission project. European industry has demonstrated its expertise in laser metrology in the LISA Pathfinder project. This will allow Europe to either proceed with the Star Watch astrometry mission on its own or through collaboration with NASA.

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  1. LeMoyne-Owen College, New York, Canastota, United States

    Philip A Horzempa

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  1. Philip A Horzempa
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Correspondence to Philip A Horzempa.

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Horzempa, P.A. Precise astrometry: Earth Analogs and Beyond. Exp Astron 54, 1339–1350 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10686-022-09860-x

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