Development of Space Infrared Coronagraph toward Direct Observations of Extra Solar Planets

Direct observation of extra solar planets is one of the key subjects of astronomy, which are linked to our cosmology : That can offer us clues to formation and evolution of planets, their diversity and ultimately evidence of extra-terrestrial life. However, high contrast between the central stars and planets poses a challenge to the observation. To address the problem, we have been working on developing a stellar coronagraph. With the instrument, we aim to directly observe extra solar planets from the space in the infrared spectral range, which gives us condition free from atmospheric influence and favorable in contrast. Consequently, we have achieved concrete results in a demonstration test of unprecedentedly-high contrast, development of wavefront compensation, and a cooling test in the infrared experimental environment. These achievements of ours established basic technology for observation of extra solar planets from the space in the future.