University Laval
HiCIBaS II - High-Constrast Imaging Balloon System - Adaptive Optics at High Altitude — Advances in space-based instruments for planetary observation involve significant costs. Fortunately, suborbital balloon flights enable the development and testing of instrumentation in space-like conditions at a fraction of the cost of full-fledged orbiting space instruments.
 
Building on previous work, this project aims to demonstrate and evaluate the performance of adaptive optics systems in space-like conditions. Test will done on a high-resolution deformable mirror within a closed-loop adaptive optics system and a camera with passive thermal control in the stratosphere. Furthermore, data on atmospheric turbulence will be gathered in full night and at sunrise at a height of 36 to 40 km. 
 
HiCIBaS-II is a great opportunity to maintain Canadian world-leadership in this area, while advancing knowledge and training the next generation of highly qualified personnel that the industry requires.