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US and European Technology Roadmap for a Mid-infrared Space Interferometer

Studies of mid-infrared space interferometer concepts in the USA and in Europe have converged on a single architecture. We address the question of how the US and European communities could collaborate to advance technology efforts leading to a future space mission. We present the current state of the art in nulling interferometry, as demonstrated at ambient temperature and pressure in the lab, and outline required steps to demonstrate its performance under space conditions. Design studies of a cryogenic optical test bench under vacuum have already been carried out. We highlight pre-conditions and constraints of a collaborative effort, foreseeable practical and administrative challenges, and possible strategies to meet those challenges.