High-Contrast Imaging

High-contrast imaging is a technique used in astronomy to observe faint objects, like planets, near bright sources such as stars. Since stars emit intense light, they can obscure nearby objects, making detection difficult. This method employs specialized instruments—like advanced telescopes and filters—to block or subtract out the star's light, enhancing the visibility of dim companions. By doing so, astronomers can directly capture images of exoplanets and other faint celestial bodies, helping us study their characteristics and better understand planetary systems beyond our own.