Digital image profilers for detecting faint sources which have bright companions
For this program, an image profiling system was developed which offers the potential for detecting extremely faint optical sources that are located in close proximity to bright companions. The approach employed is novel in three respects. First, it does not require an optical system wherein extraordinary measures must be taken to minimize diffraction and scatter. Second, it does not require detectors possessing either extreme uniformity in sensitivity or extreme temporal stability. Finally, the system can readily be calibrated, or nulled, in space by testing against an unresolved singular stellar source.