The Esa High Throughput X-Ray Spectroscopy Mission Xmm Status Of The Optics & Focal Plane Instruments

P. L. Jensen; J. M. Ellwood; A. Peacock

doi:10.1117/12.962677

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28 July 1989 The Esa High Throughput X-Ray Spectroscopy Mission Xmm Status Of The Optics & Focal Plane Instruments

P. L. Jensen, J. M. Ellwood, A. Peacock

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Proceedings Volume 1160, X-Ray/EUV Optics for Astronomy and Microscopy; (1989) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.962677
Event: 33rd Annual Technical Symposium, 1989, San Diego, United States

Abstract

The High Throughput X-ray Spectroscopy Mission XMM is the second cornerstone in ESA's long term space science programme and is due for launch in 1998. This long duration observatory for X-ray astrophysics has at its heart three heavily nested Wolter 1 grazing incidence X-ray mirror modules, which will provide a dramatic increase in collecting area over previous and contempory missions. This large aperture when coupled with an optics spatial resolution of between 15 to 30 arc sec (HEW) and sensitive X-ray cameras and spectrometers will allow a major advance in astrophysics at the turn of the century. The development programme for the X-ray optics is described and recent results presented. A detailed description of the focal plane instrumentation is also provided. The selection of this payload has just been approved by ESA's Science Programme Committee.

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P. L. Jensen, J. M. Ellwood, and A. Peacock "The Esa High Throughput X-Ray Spectroscopy Mission Xmm Status Of The Optics & Focal Plane Instruments", Proc. SPIE 1160, X-Ray/EUV Optics for Astronomy and Microscopy, (28 July 1989); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.962677

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