Infrared Space Interferometry: Astrophysics & the Study of Earth-Like Planets

The past two years have produced some of the most exciting results in the history of astronomy: the indirect detection of planets beyond our solar system. The study of the characteristics and physical nature of exo-planets requires an infrared interferometer in space. Such observatory would directly detect the thermal emission from exo-planets and would allow us to see signatures of molecules, e. g. water, ozone and carbon dioxide, in their atmospheres. The presence of such molecules would be strong evidence for exo-life. In addition, this kind of instrument would help to clarify important questions concerning the birth and death of stars and extragalactic astronomy. In Toledo, scientists and engineers from both sides of the Atlantic met for the first time to discuss the technological challenges of an infrared space interferometer and its scientific capabilities, particularly those related to exo-planetary systems and Earth-like planets.