NMF-based GPU accelerated coronagraphy pipeline

We present a generalized Non-negative factorization (NMF)-based data reduction pipeline for circumstellar disk and exoplanet detection. By using an adaptable pre-processing routine that applies algorithmic masks and corrections to improper data, we are able to easily offload the computationally-intensive NMF algorithm to a graphics processing unit (GPU), significantly increasing computational efficiency. NMF has been shown to better preserve disk structural features compared to other post-processing approaches and has demonstrated improvements in the analysis of archival data. The adaptive pre-processing routine of this pipeline, which automatically aligns and applies image corrections to the raw data, is shown to significantly improve chromatic halo suppression. Utilizing HST-STIS and JWST-MIRI coronagraphic datasets, we demonstrate a factor of five increase in real-time computational efficiency by using GPUs to perform NMF compared to using CPUs. Additionally, we demonstrate the usefulness of higher numbers of NMF components with SNR and contrast improvements, which necessitates the use of a more computationally efficient approach for data reduction

Approaches to lowering the cost of large space telescopes

New development approaches, including launch vehicles and advances in sensors, computing, and software, have lowered the cost of entry into space, and have enabled a revolution in low-cost, high-risk Small Satellite (SmallSat) missions. To bring about a similar transformation in larger space telescopes, it is necessary to reconsider the full paradigm of space observatories. Here we will review the history of space telescope development and cost drivers, and describe an example conceptual design for a low cost 6.5 m optical telescope to enable new science when operated in space at room temperature. It uses a monolithic primary mirror of borosilicate glass, drawing on lessons and tools from decades of experience with ground-based observatories and instruments, as well as flagship space missions. It takes advantage, as do large launch vehicles, of increased computing power and space-worthy commercial electronics in low-cost active predictive control systems to maintain stability. We will describe an approach that incorporates science and trade study results that address driving requirements such as integration and testing costs, reliability, spacecraft jitter, and wavefront stability in this new risk-tolerant "LargeSat" context.Comment: Presented at SPIE, Optics+Photonics 2023, Astronomical Optics: Design, Manufacture, and Test of Space and Ground Systems IV in San Diego, CA, US