VAUGHAN , Sophia R.

Proxima b is a rocky exoplanet in the habitable zone of the nearest star system and a key test case in the search for extraterrestrial life. Here, we investigate the characterization of a potential Earth-like atmosphere around Proxima b in reflected light via molecule mapping, combining high-resolution spectroscopy (HRS) and high contrast...

The detection and characterization of Earth-like exoplanets around Sun-like stars is a primary science motivation for the Habitable Worlds Observatory. However, the current best technology is not yet advanced enough to reach the 10−10 contrasts at close angular separations and at the same time remain insensitive to low-order aberrations, as...