Astrometry and Photometry with Coronagraphs

Abstract

We propose a solution to the problem of astrometric and photometric calibration of coronagraphic images with a simple optical device which, in theory, is easy to use. Our design uses the Fraunhofer approximation of Fourier optics. Placing a periodic grid of wires (we use a square grid) with known width and spacing in a pupil plane in front of the occulting coronagraphic focal plane mask produces fiducial images of the obscured star at known locations relative to the star. We also derive the intensity of these fiducial images in the coronagraphic image. These calibrator images can be used for precise relative astrometry, to establish companionship of other objects in the field of view through measurement of common proper motion or common parallax, to determine orbits, and to observe disk structure around the star quantitatively. The calibrator spots also have known brightness, selectable by the coronagraph designer, permitting accurate relative photometry in the coronagraphic image. This technique, which enables precision exoplanetary science, is relevant to future coronagraphic instruments, and is particularly useful for `extreme' adaptive optics and space-based coronagraphy.