Mikio Kurita

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About

Mikio Kurita is a leading figure in astronomical instrumentation and optical engineering, renowned for his work on high-contrast imaging and advanced manufacturing for large optics. His research focuses on developing novel telescope systems and fabrication techniques that push the boundaries of observational astronomy. Kurita’s most significant contribution is his leadership of the PLANETS project, a 1.8-meter aperture off-axis telescope designed for high-contrast imaging and spectroscopy. By employing a low-scattering off-axis mirror, this system dramatically reduces stray light, enabling the detection of faint emissions—such as exoplanetary atmospheres and circumstellar disks—that are otherwise obscured. This work, published in 2024, has already garnered 2 citations for its innovative approach to overcoming fundamental optical challenges. Additionally, Kurita pioneered a new manufacturing system for free-form large optics, integrating robotic polishing with in-situ metrology. His algorithm for stitching cross-sectional data from sensors dragged across the optical surface allows for precise fabrication of complex shapes, a breakthrough cited 3 times in his 2020 paper. Through these achievements, Kurita is shaping the future of ground-based astronomy, making him a key researcher for students interested in the intersection of optics, robotics, and astrophysical discovery.