MKRMF: Multi-Dimensional Redistribution Matrices

A response matrix is a discrete representation of a given instrument's response to incoming photons. In the case of Chandra, each element (HRMA, gratings, focal plane detectors, etc.) has a specific response to an incoming photon's individual physical characteristics, such as energy or position on the sky. These responses can be encoded in the form of a response matrix file or RMF. This presentation is a preliminary report on MKRMF, a new tool developed by the Chandra X-ray Science Center (CXC), to calculate RMFs appropriate for the variety of science instruments on-board Chandra (Wise 1998). This tool provides a number of innovations including the ability to create RMFs on user defined grids and the use of externally encoded instrument redistribution functions for greater flexibility. These external redistribution functions are stored using a new FITS format developed by the CXC for encapsulating functions.