A 1996 study took a look at the compromises in between positioning kilometric-sized interferometers on the lunar surface area vs. creating them as free-flyers in open space. Now that a lunar facilities is foreseeable under the Artemis Program, it is timely and engaging that we investigate building interferometers on the lunar surface. Our goal is the same level of detailed study as was done for large standard, free-flying interferometers throughout the 2003-2005 NASA Vision Missions Studies, in order to be prepared to take benefit of such lunar infrastructure.Potential Scientific and Societal ImpactOur research study of a lunar surface-based interferometer will be a big action forward to larger ranges on both the moon and free-flying in area, over a large variety of wavelengths and science subjects.
A 1996 research study examined the trade-offs between putting kilometric-sized interferometers on the lunar surface area vs. designing them as free-flyers in open space. Now that a lunar infrastructure is foreseeable under the Artemis Program, it is engaging and prompt that we investigate building interferometers on the lunar surface area. Our objective is the very same level of in-depth research study as was done for large baseline, free-flying interferometers throughout the 2003-2005 NASA Vision Missions Studies, in order to be prepared to take benefit of such lunar infrastructure.Potential Scientific and Societal ImpactOur research study of a lunar surface-based interferometer will be a huge action forward to larger arrays on both the moon and free-flying in area, over a large range of wavelengths and science topics.