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Contact: Lori Stiles
lstiles@u.arizona.edu
520-626-4402
University of Arizona

Comparison of Images Taken With SDI On and Off

Caption: Comparison of images taken with SDI on and off. A number of fake planets (at separations of 0.55", 0.85", and 1.15" from the star) were added in to this data, which was then analyzed first using the SDI method and second, using standard adaptive optics techniques. The simulated planets, each seen as a pair of black-and-white dots 33 degrees apart in the SDI image, are easily detected yet are 10,000 times fainter than the central star in the standard adaptive optics analysis.

Credit: Beth Biller, Laird Close, UA Steward Observatory

Usage Restrictions: Credit University of Arizona Steward Observatory/Beth Biller, Laird Close

Related news release: Benchmark survey shows that giant outer extrasolar planets are rare


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