Coronagraphic imaging is a technique used in astronomy to block out the bright light from a central star, in order to observe faint objects nearby, such as exoplanets or dust disks. This is accomplished using a specialized instrument called a coronagraph, which uses a series of masks and occulting disks to create an artificial eclipse, allowing astronomers to study the surrounding environment in more detail. Coronagraphic imaging is an important tool for studying extrasolar planets and other objects in close proximity to bright stars.