MAPS: The MMT Adaptive optics exoPlanet characterization System

研究附近恒星周围的行星系统，以及它们与我们太阳系的相似性或差异，解决了一个关于人类在宇宙中的地位的基本核心问题。 MAPS项目将开发一种新的光学和相机系统，用于详细研究围绕邻近恒星运行的行星。 该计划将探测行星的大气层和物理构成。这项研究的结果很容易获得，对考虑从事科学或工程职业的学生来说可能是鼓舞人心的。 MAPS计划还将通过每年的冬季学校为刚刚开始研究的年轻人提供培训。 在建立和部署一个系统，如MAPS的实践培训提供了重要的经验，为科学发现开发新的工具。在亚利桑那州霍普金斯，计划中的MMT自适应光学系外行星表征系统（MAPS）将结合联合收割机：（1）高空间分辨率，以解决成像的系外行星和磁盘;（2）高光谱分辨率，以明确的方式探测系外行星大气吸收线;（3）宽波长范围的探测系统覆盖整个波长范围，这对于了解系外行星大气中的物理过程至关重要。将执行一个核心科学项目，以获得已知系外行星的物理参数，以及TESS等任务确定的新目标。MAPS计划将为有兴趣深入了解系外行星和基础仪器的年轻天文学家提供一个充满活力的培训基地。MAPS团队将开发和举办ExoTech学院，这是一所年度冬季学校，专注于学生和早期职业科学家的培训和学术发展。MAPS团队还将利用经过验证的机构级研究教育项目，招募代表性不足的和/或第一代本科生，他们将通过参与该项目获得指导性的研究培训经验。该奖项反映了NSF的法定使命，并通过使用基金会的智力价值和更广泛的影响审查标准进行评估，被认为值得支持。

The study of planetary systems around nearby stars, and their similarity to or difference from our own solar system, addresses a basic, central question about humankind's place in the universe. The MAPS project will develop a new optics and camera system for the detailed study of planets orbiting neighboring stars. The program will probe the atmospheres and physical makeups of the planets. Results from this research are easily accessible, and can be inspirational to students considering a career in science or engineering. The MAPS program will also provide training, through an annual winter school, for young people just starting out in research. Hands-on training in building and deploying a system such as MAPS provides critical experience for developing new tools for scientific discovery.Using the 6.5m MMT telescope facility on Mt. Hopkins, Arizona, the planned MMT Adaptive optics exoPlanet characterization System (MAPS) will combine: (1) high spatial resolution to resolve imaged exoplanets and disks; (2) high spectral resolution to detect exoplanet atmospheric absorption lines in an unambiguous way; and (3) broad wavelength coverage to probe systems across the range of wavelengths, crucial for understanding the physical processes in exoplanet atmospheres. A core science project will be executed to derive the physical parameters of known exoplanets, as well as new targets identified by missions such as TESS. The MAPS program will provide a vibrant training ground for young astronomers interested in a deeper understanding of exoplanets and the underlying instrumentation. The MAPS team will develop and hold the ExoTech Academy, an annual winter school focused on training and academic development for students and early career scientists. The MAPS team will also leverage proven, institutional-level research education programs to recruit underrepresented and/or first-generation undergraduates who will gain a mentored research training experience by working on the project.This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.