Laboratory for Innovation in Optomechanics
Empowering Optics Through Innovation
Laboratory for Innovation in Optomechanics. (LIOM)
(LIOM) is part of the Instituto de Astrofísica de Canarias in Tenerife, Canary Islands, is dedicated to advancing cutting-edge technologies. Focused primarily on supporting the Exo-life Finder project, LIOM also aims to drive innovation for the next generation of telescopes.
LIOM Technologies Power the EXOLIFE FINDER
Using advanced optical and mechanical technologies developed by LIOM, the ELF is able to scan the atmospheres of exoplanets and analyze their chemical composition for biosignatures, which are indicators of life.
The ELF is a testament to LIOM’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the field of opto-mechanical engineering, and it has the potential to revolutionize our understanding of the universe and the potential for life beyond our planet.
Advancing the Frontier of Science
The success of the ELF mission depends on the ability to achieve extremely high levels of contrast between the dim light of the planet and the bright glare of its host star with a technique called coronagraphic direct imaging. This requires a highly stable and precise optical system, which is where LIOM’s technology research comes in. LIOM plays a specific role in the development of ExoLife Finder, including:
Telescope Design and Optimization
Detector Development and Calibration
Environmental Testing and Verificatoin
Methodology for Research and Development
At ELF, our strategic approach involves forming partnerships with leading academic and innovative technology businesses in Europe, Canada, and the USA. To achieve this, we propose a collaborative networking methodology that relies on the active collaboration between the Era Chair Holder, the LIOM team, the coordinating institution IAC, and an international external advisory body. This network will focus on the following five strategic areas to drive progress in the search for exolife.
The ELF is a testament to LIOM’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the field of opto-mechanical engineering, and it has the potential to revolutionize our understanding of the universe and the potential for life beyond our planet.
Five Strategic Areas to Drive Progress
Development of Innovative Optomechanical Capacities
Revolutionizing telescope engineering, by creating robust and massive tensegrity optomechanical structures to improve their stiffness-to-mass ratios, resulting in a tenfold reduction in ratios, achieving a breakthrough in the field.
Development of Creation, Consolidation, and Operation of Opto-Mechanics
LIOM aims to enhance and expand know-how for producing top-notch astrophysical optics like ultra-thin mirrors.
Networking and Collaboration
The goal of this initiative is to broaden the cross-sectoral reach of the IAC by fostering collaboration with leading institutions in Europe, Canada, and the USA known for their exceptional performance.
Role of Sustainable Excellence at IAC
Strengthening the research and innovation (R&I) chain is a critical focus of this project, with a particular emphasis on enhancing the capabilities of the IAC.
Collection of EU Projects, Papers, Thesis, and Products
The IAC excels in advanced technology development up to TRL 9, including nanosatellite Earth Observation cameras.