Nautilus Observatory: a space telescope array based on very large aperture ultralight diffractive optical elements

Abstract

We describe a novel space observatory concept that is enabled by very large (8.5m-diameter), ultralight-weight multi-order diffractive lenses that can be cost-effectively replicated. The observatory utilizes an array of identical telescopes with a total combined light collecting area equivalent to that of a 50m-diameter telescope. Here we review the capabilities of a Nautilus unit telescope, the observatory concept, and the technology readiness of the key components. The Nautilus Observatory is capable of surveying a thousand transiting exo-earth candidates to 300 pc for biosignatures, enabling a rigorous statistical exploration of potentially life-bearing planets and the diversity of exo-earths.