Cost estimate for the Kilometric Optical Interferometer (KOI)

Eric J. Bakker; Chethan Parameswariah; Jayadev Rajagopal

doi:10.1117/12.788573

28 July 2008 Cost estimate for the Kilometric Optical Interferometer (KOI)

Eric J. Bakker, Chethan Parameswariah, Jayadev Rajagopal

Proceedings Volume 7013, Optical and Infrared Interferometry; 70134F (2008) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.788573
Event: SPIE Astronomical Telescopes + Instrumentation, 2008, Marseille, France

Abstract

We present a parametric cost estimate for the Kilometric Optical Interferometer (KOI) in a classical array configuration: 24 telescopes, 4-meter primary mirror, up to 1 km baseline. The parametric cost estimate is based on available cost information from the Magdalena Ridge Observatory (MRO) Interferometer at New Mexico Tech. A Kilometric Optical Interferometer based on a classical array concept has an estimated construction cost between $1B and $3B if it would be built today (2008 dollars and technology). The implication of the estimated construction cost is that cost reductions are critical in the planning phase to bring the cost within a reasonable envelope. Hence we propose to set a budget ceiling that seems feasible given the support to be expected from the scientific community and funding agencies. Given a budget ceiling, a design-to-cost process should be followed. We propose to set a construction phase budget cap of $800M (2008 dollars) for KOI as an initial goal. Narrowing down of the science goals in combination with technology development to reduce cost and technological complexity are the main areas of activities for the next decade. We propose to establish a virtual project office to coordinate these activities.

Citation Download Citation

Eric J. Bakker, Chethan Parameswariah, and Jayadev Rajagopal "Cost estimate for the Kilometric Optical Interferometer (KOI)", Proc. SPIE 7013, Optical and Infrared Interferometry, 70134F (28 July 2008); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.788573

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