The scientific basis for the space interferometry missionThe space interferometry mission (SIM), for launch in 2004, is expected to determine the positions of point sources to a global accuracy of 4 microarcsec, and an accuracy of 1 microarcsec over small angles. The instrument will reach 200 mag in 3 x 10(exp 4) s and has a nominal lifetime of five years. A nulling capability will be provided and synthesis imaging and near-infrared capabilities are being considered. These capabilities will extend those of the Hipparcos mission by almost three orders of magnitude in every sense. The NASA's expectation for the scientific return from the SIM mission is outlined in terms of the areas of stellar physics, galactic structure and extragalactic astrophysics, including the distance scale problem.
Document ID
19980039542
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Peterson, Deane (State Univ. of New York Stony Brook, NY United States)
Shao, Michael (Jet Propulsion Lab., California Inst. of Tech. Pasadena, CA United States)