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WFIRST-AFTA: Coronagraph Technology Development

Note: Please note that this is an “archived project” and is no longer updated. This article is meant for historical purposes only.

WFIRST would perform wide-field imaging and spectroscopy of the infrared sky. One of the observatory’s objectives would be to look for clues about dark energy, the mysterious force that is accelerating the expansion of the universe. Another objective of the mission would be to find and study planets outside our solar system.

Direct imaging of exoplanets allows their spectral characterization, revealing their atmospheric composition and, potentially, signs of life. The WFIRST/AFTA mission concept includes the first high-contrast coronagraph in space. NASA’s Space Technology and Science Mission Directorates are funding the development of the coronagraph technology demonstration. The coronagraph will produce precursor science in exoplanet direct imaging and spectroscopy.

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Last Updated
Aug 05, 2024