Issue |
Astron. Astrophys. Suppl. Ser.
Volume 137, Number 3, June II 1999
|
|
---|---|---|
Page(s) | 543 - 551 | |
DOI | https://doi.org/10.1051/aas:1999261 | |
Published online | 15 June 1999 |
A hierarchical phasing algorithm for multi–element optical interferometers
1
Collège de France & University of Manchester, Nuffield Radio Astronomy Laboratories, Jodrell Bank, UK–Cheshire, SK11 9DL, UK
2
Collège de France et Observatoire de Haute–Provence, CNRS, F–04870 Saint–Michel l'Observatoire, France
Received:
26
February
1999
Accepted:
26
March
1999
Large multi–aperture interferometers are expected to provide snap–shot images with milli– to nano–arcsecond resolution, directly at the combined focus. This requires a densified exit pupil and phased beams for all the wavelengths used. The wave analysis methods serving for adaptive optics in monolithic telescopes being inadequate for diluted apertures, we have developed a different phasing algorithm. It involves a hierarchy of aperture triplets and uses image sharpness criteria. Numerical simulations on unresolved and resolved objects show that a single iteration is generally sufficient. On wavelength–dependant objects, the proper position indexing of the monochromatic image components appears also efficiently achievable.
Key words: instrumentation: interferometers / methods: numerical / techniques: image processing / techniques: interferometric / telescopes
© European Southern Observatory (ESO), 1999