High-resolution imaging x-ray spectrometer

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Project objective

Research objectives and content We propose a novel high resolution X-ray spectrometer for application in X-ray astronomy. The detector is low temperature calorimeter operating in the mK temperature range. A superconducting absorber of square centimetre area is read out by an array of sub-millimetre sized superconducting phase transition thermometer. The expected energy resolution is more than 10 times improved compared to the limit of what the best CCD detectors can do. Further, position resolution of 50(M)m is provided by energy sharing between the sensors. The detector concept advantageously combines several features, which were already proven on their own in other cryogenic detectors, and therefore represents a relatively small development risk. The concurrent development of small cryogenic refrigerators, reaching temperatures as low as 5 mK will allow these detectors to be used in space missions. Training content (objective, benefit and expected impact) The training aspect is very high due to the interdisciplinary character of the research. In particular, training in detection of radiation and particle identification is necessary. In addition, training on instrumentation used in nuclear and particle physics would be highly beneficial. Links with industry / industrial relevance (22) At present there are no direct links to industry, however industry will be involved at later stages when initial exploratory and development phase will have been carried out.

Original text from CORDIS.

Participants

• THE CHANCELLOR, MASTERS AND SCHOLARS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF OXFORD · OXFORDCoordinatorUnited Kingdom
• Not availableCity levelFrance

Links

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