Microfabricated pinholes for high contrast imaging testbeds

Emory L. Jenkins, Kyle Van Gorkom, Kevin Derby, Patrick Ingraham, Ewan S. Douglas

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

Abstract

In order to reach contrast ratios of 108 and beyond, coronagraph testbeds need source optics that reliably emulate nearly-point-like starlight, with microfabricated pinholes being a compelling solution. To verify, a physical optics model of the Space Coronagraph Optical Bench (SCoOB) source optics, including a finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) pinhole simulation, was created. The results of the FDTD simulation show waveguide-like behavior of pinholes. We designed and fabricated microfabricated pinholes for SCoOB made from an aluminum overcoated silicon nitride film overhanging a silicon wafer substrate, and report characterization of the completed pinholes.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationTechniques and Instrumentation for Detection of Exoplanets XI
EditorsGarreth J. Ruane
PublisherSPIE
ISBN (Electronic)9781510665743
DOIs
StatePublished - 2023
EventTechniques and Instrumentation for Detection of Exoplanets XI 2023 - San Diego, United States
Duration: Aug 21 2023Aug 24 2023

Publication series

NameProceedings of SPIE - The International Society for Optical Engineering
Volume12680

Conference

ConferenceTechniques and Instrumentation for Detection of Exoplanets XI 2023
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CitySan Diego
Period8/21/238/24/23

Keywords

  • Coronagraphy
  • high contrast imaging
  • microfabrication
  • pinhole
  • spatial filter

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Electronic, Optical and Magnetic Materials
  • Condensed Matter Physics
  • Computer Science Applications
  • Applied Mathematics
  • Electrical and Electronic Engineering

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