“MARCOT: Un nuevo concepto de telescopio de gran apertura. Diseño, casos científicos e impacto”

Photonic EMARCOT is a new concept for a scalable and modular astronomical large telescope based on combining multiple commercial Optical Tube Assemblies (OTAs) with photonics lanterns. Its combined operational mode can result in a sizeable equivalent aperture telescope at an estimated cost ten times lower than similar existing or future facilities.

The cornerstone of this innovative concept lies in the integration of cutting-edge photonic technology, enabling unprecedented optical combination and light collection capabilities. In particular, Photonic EMARCOT will use photonic technology to collect the light from each commercial unit through a fiber and optically combine it using an advanced multi-mode photonic lantern (MM-PL), which has not been previously applied in astronomical contexts. This approach would allow Photonic EMARCOT to be coupled with existing high-resolution spectrographs, such as CARMENES-like instruments.

To date, the project has developed the MARCOT Pathfinder telescope, which consists of 7 OTAs and is equivalent to an effective aperture of 1.1 meters. The key innovation lies in using a 7-to-1 Multi-Mode Photonic Lantern (MM-PL) to combine the light from these OTAs. This telescope, equipped with a spectroscopic mode utilizing the MM-PL, will serve as a demonstrator for this innovative approach, forming the primary objective of Phase 1 of the Photonic EMARCOT project. Phase 2 will expand upon this foundation, targeting an effective aperture of 5 meters. The ultimate goal in Phase 3 is to construct a telescope with a 15-meter-equivalent aperture. To this aim, we have already secured funding through an AEI Equipment call to develop the first spectroscopic module based on MM-PL technology, which is the critical step in achieving these objectives.

The primary scientific focus of the Photonic EMARCOT project will be the study of exoplanets and planetary systems, where its impact is expected to be groundbreaking. Photonic EMARCOT will open new avenues for exploring a broad range of topics in this field, from the search for Earth-like worlds to the detailed characterization of planetary interiors and atmospheres.
Unlike other large infrastructures, which must divide observation time across multiple scientific niches, Photonic EMARCOT will prioritize large-scale surveys in this domain by investing a significant portion of its observation time in this field. This will allow for unparalleled impact and ensure a substantial advancement in understanding the formation, evolution, and habitability of exoplanets and planetary systems.
While exoplanet research will be the primary driver of Photonic EMARCOT’s science, the facility will also allocate open time for the broader scientific community. This opportunity will allow researchers to address other fields of interest, such as Solar System studies, the spectroscopic investigation of high-redshift galaxies, and more. With this strategy, Photonic EMARCOT aims to maximize its contribution to a diverse range of astronomical research areas.

We see Photonic EMARCOT as a new infrastructure that will not only have clear synergies with larger facilities like the ELT but also as a new innovative concept for the post-ELT era. Considering the significant economic, environmental, and sustainability challenges associated with building telescopes larger than the ELT, Photonic EMARCOT offers a transformative pathway. Its modular, cost-effective design, combined with the integration of cutting-edge photonic technology, positions it as a pioneering model. This approach enables unprecedented optical performance, offering scalability and versatility that could redefine the future of large telescopes. As a result, Photonic EMARCOT has the potential to lead the way in the next generation of astronomical facilities, where both modularity and photonics will become central pillars in the construction of low-cost, sustainable observatories.

This scientific meeting has a dual purpose. On the one hand, it serves as the kick-off meeting for the Photonic EMARCOT project, bringing together its core team to discuss and coordinate initial steps. On the other hand, it is an open forum for the broader astronomical community, inviting participation from anyone interested in exploring the project’s potential. The meeting will present the technological concept of the telescope, motivating the astronomical community to propose new scientific cases to be developed with Photonic EMARCOT-5m and 15m, exploring the impact of this low-cost infrastructure in the medium- and long-term global astronomy landscape. It will also establish collaborative ties with scientific and technological groups from both public and private institutions.
For this reason, the workshop will include presentations on innovative technological developments and relevant scientific projects for Photonic EMARCOT and the participation of technology companies showcasing their experiences and capabilities in cutting-edge astronomical instrumentation.