Opto-mechanical design of a four apertures nulling interferometer Integration internship

Abstract

This Master's thesis focuses on the opto-mechanical design of a four-aperture nulling interferometer for the detection of exoplanets. The primary objective is to investigate and address the scientific and engineering challenges inherent in nulling interferometry through a multidisciplinary approach. The research integrates optical modelling, mechanical design, and performance evaluation to develop a system capable of suppressing stellar light while allowing the detection of faint planetary companions.

The optical design is carried out using CODE V, which enables ray-tracing simulations and optimisation under both ideal and perturbed conditions. A detailed theoretical framework is established, covering optical path differences, phase control, and intensity modulation. The mechanical structure is developed using Siemens NX, with attention to structural stability, mass constraints, deployability, and tolerance analysis. Two mechanical configurations are considered: a telescopic assembly and a foldable mirror arrangement. MATLAB is employed for statistical evaluations and to support custom optimisation routines.

Key results include a validated optical design for the nulling interferometer. Mechanical models demonstrate feasibility for space-based deployment and highlight the need for active compensation. Tolerance analysis identifies alignment sensitivities, addressed through the use of precision actuators.

Performance evaluation includes simulating perturbed conditions to test robustness. Two compensation strategies, bisection method and CODE V optimisation routines, are compared, showing effective restoration of interference patterns. The exoplanet detection potential is statistically estimated, and various array configurations are analysed for error tolerance.

In conclusion, the research demonstrates that a well-integrated opto-mechanical design, supported by robust simulation and optimisation tools, can significantly enhance the feasibility and performance of space-based nulling interferometers for exoplanet detection.