Ramona Adams
The University of Massachusetts Lowell Center for Space Science and Technology has concluded its Planet Imaging Coronagraphic Technology Using a Reconfigurable Experimental Base exoplanet research mission following its return from space.
PICTURE-B features a 22-inch-diameter silicon carbide primary mirror built by Northrop Grumman‘s AOA Xinetics subsidiary, Northrop said Tuesday.
The mirror worked to support PICTURE-B’s mission to observe the Rigel star from space and achieve an apogee of 134 miles, the company added.
Northrop said the UMass project set out to measure dust and debris surrounding nearby stars to determine their impact on exoplanet observations as part of efforts to enhance the identification and study of the planets.
AOA Xinetics’ mirror withstood PICTURE-B launch and landing conditions and will support future missions, Northrop noted.
PICTURE-B launched aboard a NASA sounding rocket in 2011 and landed back on Earth on Nov. 25, 2015.
