GPI Gemini Planet Imager
<p>Feb 01, 2012 03:55 PM
 
GPI  gemini planet imager:
 
first light  mid 2012
 
initl deployment at GEmini South  8M  scope on Cerro Pachon... Chilean Andes;
 
want to use spectrum to measure planets size, temp, gravity, and atmos composition.
 
how:  silicon microchip deformable mirrors
and coron. masks to block diffracted light from star.
 
0.9 to 2.4 micron .
 
1-2 hour exposure:  separations of 0.2 to 1 arcsecond...
 
planets: up to 1B yrs ago;  thru their IR light;
 
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