Linear formation-flying astronomical interferometry in low-Earth orbit: a feasibility study

Space interferometry is the inevitable endpoint of high angular resolution astrophysics, and a key technology that can be leveraged to analyse exoplanet formation and atmospheres with exceptional detail. Here, we present a feasibility study into a small scale formation flying interferometric array, flying in Low Earth Orbit, that will aim to prove the technical concepts involved with space interferometry while still making unique astrophysical measurements. We will detail the design of the mission, as well as present orbital simulations that show that the array should be stable enough to perform interferometry with <50 m/s/year Δv and one thruster per spacecraft. We also conduct observability simulations to identify what parts of the sky are visible for a given orbital configuration. We conclude with optimism that this design is achievable, but a more detailed control simulation factoring in a metrology system is the next step to demonstrate full mission feasibility.