First Camera Integrated for Plato Exoplanet Explorer
by Robert Schreiber
Bremen, Germany (SPX) Jun 12, 2024

The integration of Plato's cameras has commenced at OHB's Space Centre and Optics facility in Oberpfaffenhofen, Germany. The first of 26 cameras has been successfully attached to Plato's optical bench, ensuring precise alignment for the mission.

"Plato will use 24 'normal' cameras and 2 'fast' cameras to look at more than 100 000 stars and search for planets around them." The mission uses the transit method, where planets passing in front of their host stars cause a dimming of the starlight. This effect helps determine a planet's size, mass, and density.

During the four-year mission, the cameras will utilize a specialized pointing technique to observe the same stars over extended periods. Collectively, the 26 cameras will image about 5% of the sky simultaneously.

Plato's scientific payload, including the cameras and electronic units, is a collaboration between ESA and the Plato Mission Consortium. This Consortium includes various European research centers, institutes, and industries.

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