Paper 14145-233
Paper 14145-233
CATKit2-HCI: a collaborative framework for advancing high-contrast coronagraph testbeds
8 July 2026 • 17:30 - 19:00 CEST | Room B4-M3
Abstract
High-contrast exoplanet imaging requires dedicated laboratory testbeds for coronagraph technology development. The CATKit2-High-Contrast-Imaging (CATKit2-HCI) international collaboration unites groups operating coronagraph testbeds using CATKit2, an open-source Python infrastructure controlling hardware via a fast, C++ Client-Server architecture.
Our goal is to develop and share a common architecture and tools across facilities, fostering collaboration and accelerating progress. A key objective is to avoid duplication of effort and facilitate more direct comparison of results obtained at different testbeds. We are developing a common framework for wavefront sensing and control, standardized file outputs, visualization, and performance metrics. Formalized by a Collaboration Agreement, this initiative also facilitates the exchange of students and postdoctoral researchers, and is open to expand to other high-contrast coronagraph testbeds.
Presenter
Space Telescope Science Institute (United States)
Dr. Rémi Soummer is an Astronomer at the Space Telescope Science Institute and Head of the Russell B. Makidon Optics Laboratory. His research focuses on future missions to detect and image habitable Earth-like planets, with the goal of finding life. For over two decades, he has pioneered instrumentation, technology, and algorithms for capturing images of faint exoplanets orbiting their stars. Notable contributions include the Apodized Pupil Lyot Coronagraph, his role as coronagraph architect for the Gemini Planet Imager, and the KLIP algorithm. He also played a key role in the early development of the James Webb Space Telescope, particularly its coronagraphic instruments, and led the Telescopes Group responsible for mirror alignment. Since 2017, Dr. Soummer has dedicated his efforts to STScI’s Optics Laboratory, developing technology for the Habitable Worlds Observatory to image other Earths and search for life, and fostering international collaborations.