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A.T. Tokunaga, J. Kuhn, P. Baudoz, R. Coulter, J. Rayner, D. Toomey (Inst. for Astronomy, Univ. of Hawaii), G. Moretto (Univ. of Durham)
A telescope concept is proposed to undertake studies of Kuiper Belt Objects, Near-Earth Objects, and circumstellar disks and extra-solar planets. These diverse scientific objectives require capabilities ranging over wide-field imaging, high angular resolution, high sensitivity in the optical and thermal infrared, and superb photometric dynamic range. It is possible to achieve all of these performance requirements using a 6.5m unobstructed, off-axis telescope. Unique features include optimization for unprecedented low scattered light and high dynamic range astronomy, extremely low infrared emissivity, and innovative instruments uniquely designed to take full advantage of these capabilities, such as coronagraphic instruments.