Space-based astrometric optical interferometry with POINTS

摘要: POINTS, a dual space-based astrometric optical interferometer with nominal baseline length of 2 meters and measurement accuracy 5 microarcseconds, which could be powerful new multidisciplinary research tool is introduced. The instrument, including the laser gauges are central aspect described. design spacecraft, mission operations, bias determination correction, discussed. As candidate for Astrometric Interferometry Mission (AIM) mission, POINTS open areas astrophysical change nature questions being asked in some old areas. TOPS-1 (Towards Other Planetary Systems) it used to perform definitive search extra solar planetary systems, either finding characterizing large number them or showing that they far less numerous than now believed. small, agile, mechanically simple, would first class instruments space prove technology larger members follow.