Band-limited masks for TPF coronagraph

Band-limited image plane masks, in conjunction with appropriate Lyot stops, function effectively to suppress host star light while transmitting planet light to the final image for detecting and characterizing faint exo-solar terrestrial planets. In this article, we review various types of image plane masks, their design, fabrication, and characterization. Measured characteristics and performance of sample masks in simulations and in laboratory experiments are also discussed. Star light suppression contrast better than 10−9 in the 4 to 10 λ / D region has been demonstrated with such a mask in our laboratory testbed. To cite this article: K. Balasubramanian et al., C. R. Physique 8 (2007).