Program: GN-2007B-Q-59

We propose a deep AO survey for exoplanets around dusty A- and F-type stars using a refined version of the very successful Angular Differential Imaging technique, which distinguishes true companions/disks from artifacts through sidereal rotation. Usually, stars as massive as A- and early F-type stars have been neglected in AO searches, including the Gemini Deep Planet Survey, while radial velocity surveys have reduced sensitivity for such stars. Thus planet/BD formation around more massive stars remains unconstrained. For each target, a two hour sequence of images will achieved a contrast limit 3-4 magnitudes better than previous surveys made with HST or conventional AO. We will be capable of detecting exoplanets of ~5 Jupiter mass at separations of ~1.5arcsec, corresponding to ~60 AU at a typical proposed target star. After combining this new A- and F-type star survey with our previous GKM star GDPS survey, we will have, for the first time, a broader picture of the formation of massive planets at large semi-major axes around a wide range of spectral type.