NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, JPL, in Pasadena, California has started developing its starshade spacecraft that opens up like a blossom, resembling a sunflower. This spacecraft is aimed to help astronomers study exoplanets, including taking the first actual pictures of planets outside of our Solar System. The starshade acts as a shield to block out starlight, therefore making it much easier for astronomers to see any planets near by. After orbit insertion, the starshade and telescope separate and the shade unfolds into a disk with petals on the rim. The petals cannot be seen from far away, creating a softer edge that causes less bending of light waves. This makes it easier to see planets and take pictures without being overwhelmed by starlight. The space telescope and starshade move in formation and line up with any star. It is currently being tested at Princeton University and JPL.
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