Twinkle’s highly-stable instrument will allow the photometric and spectroscopic observation of a wide range of planetary classes around different types of stars, with a focus on bright sources close to the ecliptic. The planets will be observed through transit and eclipse photometry and spectroscopy, also providing phase curves, eclipse mapping and multiple narrow-band time-series.

Given Twinkle’s optimisation for exoplanet science, the instrument can obtain high SNR spectra of solar system planets and moons in brief exposure times. Twinkle’s position above the atmosphere enables it to observe hydration features, CO2 ice bands, silicates and organics without being obscured by telluric lines.

Key science cases for asteroid science include studying hydration features, the composition of stony asteroids and the detection of silicates and organics. Twinkle can also be used to examine the comae of bright comets. The composition, size and structure of their ice grains can be found, as well as the presence of organics and carbon dioxide features in the spectra.

Twinkle’s specifications allow for the observations of stars, through time, at multiple wavelengths. Observations with Twinkle will allow the monitoring of stellar activity and variability, thus refining our knowledge of their properties. The brightest brown dwarfs will also be observable.