Exoplanet imaging scheduling optimization for an orbiting starshade working with Extremely Large Telescopes

Abstract

We present optimized observation schedules for a distributed configuration of the Remote Occulter Mission. Accounting for refueling rounds, we show that an Earth-orbiting Remote Occulter could enable up to 158 ground-based observations of 80 exoplanetary targets in a mission lifetime. We develop two target lists, provide exposure time estimates for each potential target star, present an analytic approach for determining target observability, and estimate the cost of station-keeping and retargeting maneuvers required to maintain such a mission. We optimize the mission observation schedule over these cost and science delivery estimates using deterministic and metaheuristic optimization methods with varying degrees of operator intervention and conclude by assessing mission profile sensitivity to both isolated and accumulated cost and design perturbations.