Abstract

Exploration of planets both inside and outside the Solar System requires continued improvements in optical systems used to collect the light from the planet. Recently, the large deployable reflector¹ (LDR) has been proposed as a novel telescope for infrared exploration. Thus, it is particularly suitable for the search for planets outside the Solar System or for more detailed remote exploration of the planets inside the Solar System. Infrared astronomy is more appropriately performed in space because the atmosphere attenuates IR radiation. The Space Station has been considered a suitable site for a single telescope. However, for an array of telescopes, a lunar site is preferable; it offers a rigid base, required either for interferometry or for phasing of individual telescopes.

© 1988 Optical Society of America