SPHERE: a 2nd generation VLT instrument optimized for exoplanet direct detections

J.-L. Beuzit, D. Mouillet, M. Feldt, K. Dohlen, P. Puget et al.

Direct detection and spectral characterization of extra-solar planets is one of the most 
exciting but also one of the most challenging areas in modern astronomy. For its second 
generation instrumentation on the VLT,ESO has supported two phase A studies for a so-called 
"Planet Finder" dedicated instrument. Based on the results of these two studies, a unique 
instrument, SPHERE, is now considered for first light in 2010,including a powerful extreme 
adaptive optics system (SAXO), various coronagraphs, an infrared differential imaging camera 
(IRDIS), an infrared integral field spectrograph (IFS) and a visible differential 
polarimeter (ZIMPOL). The expected performance of the proposed instrument makes possible to 
investigate the presence of extrasolar giant planets around hundreds of stars. This 
instrument will also provide new insights in the properties and evolution of the stellar 
environments in general, including the properties of brown dwarf companions, young disks or 
debris disks.