Dr. Annu Jacob

As we enter the next generation of astronomical exploration, the demand for both large, ground-based observatories and optimized, modular space-based platforms is steadily increasing. My research trajectory is shaped by this evolving landscape, with a focus on addressing these needs through the integration of optical design and analysis, wavefront control, and micro- and optical-fabrication techniques. My long-term vision is to develop adaptive, data-intelligent astronomical systems capable of operating across diverse observational platforms. In this talk, I will take you through my journey in astronomical instrumentation. I will begin by discussing my work on segmented mirror telescopes, which involved the optical design and analysis of segmented mirror telescopes and experimental validation of co-phasing strategies using modified Shack-Hartmann and Pyramid wavefront sensors. I will also highlight efforts toward developing aspheric primary mirrors assembled from spherical segments—approaches that lay the groundwork for realizing future large, indigenous telescopes. Next, I will present my work at IUCAA on the Devasthal Optical Telescope Integral Field Spectrograph (DOTIFS). This includes the design and fabrication of a high-precision, silicon-based fiber holder using deep reactive ion etching (DRIE). This method achieves sub-10 micron alignment accuracy and offers scalability for wide-field, deployable integral field units (IFUs)—a concept that holds promise for both space-borne and ground-based multi-object spectrographs. In addition to academic research, I will briefly discuss my industry experience in space-based systems, which I see as a critical frontier for building India’s capacity in advanced astronomical instrumentation. By fostering stronger links between academia and industry, I believe we can accelerate the development and deployment of innovative instruments. Looking ahead, my research aims to advance next-generation astronomical instrumentation through scalable, high-precision systems. In addition to a collaborative contribution to the development of cutting-edge instruments, I intend to support the design and realization of next-generation telescopes and subsystems for observatories in India and abroad, including the South African Astronomical Observatory (SAAO) and the Thirty Meter Telescope (TMT). My interests also include the development of deployable IFUs and realization of active optics systems that leverage AI-driven wavefront control. I am also interested in exploring compact spectroscopic payloads for microsatellites, opening new avenues for space-based astronomical observations. Complementing these efforts, I aim to help build a national data processing framework that integrates instrumentation with scientific data pipelines across optical, radio, and gravitational wave astronomy. My broader vision is to contribute to IUCAA’s leadership in instrumentation through collaborative innovation bridging academia, industry, and observatories while also mentoring the next generation of scientists and engineers through teaching, internships, and outreach.