Sub-milliarcsecond astronomical imaging: advancing space-based astronomical optical interferometry observatories with Optimast

Astrophysical goals articulated in the recent Astronomy Decadal Review demand significant strides in high sensitivity, high spatial resolution observing. Current ground-based interferometric observatories have validated and demonstrated synthetic aperture observation, but are fundamentally limited in sensitivity by the Earth's atmosphere. Lowell Observatory and Redwire Space, Inc., have recently concluded NASA SBIR Phase II work in developing `Optimast' interferometry technologies which provide us with a toolkit for mission development. Optimast research included demonstrations of a prototype beam combiner, outboard feed optics tracking, and in-situ boom manufacturing for structurally connected free fliers. Our mission's roadmap includes affordable small demonstrators such as free fliers for flexible at-will observing of the entire sky, and lunar surface `suitcase' concepts for rapid, simple implementation of sensitive, high resolution facilities.