Modelling space-based high-precision photometry for asteroseismic applications

Abstract

We present a new formalism to model and simulate space-based high-precision photometric time-series of stochastically oscillating stars. The first component of the formalism models time-series of CCD images with all important instrumental effects incorporated, while the second component models stellar light curves as if there was no instrumental deterioration. The formalism can and is being used to analyse ground-based asteroseismic time-series, as well as to predict the performance of a space-based instrument during its design phase. Next to the description of the formalism, we demonstrate its usefulness by including two short but real-life applications. © 2005 RAS.