For example, Project 1640 used all its filters to capture this image of a star with a companion. By using the coronagraph, adaptive optics, and calibration system on the central star, the background becomes dim enough that the brown dwarf on the lower right side is clearly visible.

In fact, Project 1640 is capable of detecting objects 10,000 times dimmer than a brown dwarf, which means it could become the first imaging system to routinely snap optical images of exoplanets.

Project 1640 began surveying newly discovered exoplanets last month (no images have been released yet), specifically focusing on hot planets about the size of Jupiter.