Astrophotonics: The next wave in observational cosmology

Abstract

Modern astronomy is on the verge of another revolution. The largest optical/infrared telescopes, with diameters up to 10m, are soon to be overtaken by 25-42m behemoths. The most compelling science goals are the detection of faint light from extrasolar planets in orbit around nearby stars and, at the other extreme, the detection of the first star-forming systems in the early universe which is the focus of this talk. The design and construction of the next generation of astronomical instruments presents us with a major challenge. The astronomical community must embrace new technological avenues, in particular, astrophotonics. I will show the PIMMS concept, a new approach to astronomical instruments which has application across many applied sciences. I will also feature a new instrument concept GNOSIS that will see first light in 2011.