Silicon Pore Optics for IXO

The future X-ray astrophysics missions after XMM and Chandra will require novel optics to be developed, in order to provide the combination of large effective area, low mass and adequate angular resolution. In particular the IXO mission candidate, as selected in the first slice of the Cosmic Vision 1525 programme, has stringent and demanding requirements on the performance of the required X-ray optics forming the core of the mission concept.

In a series of activities led and funded by ESA, an extensive consortium of European industries and institutions is working on the development of the Silicon Pore Optics (SPO) X-ray optics technology. The novel technology is using the latest generation Silicon wafers as starting material to produce highly modular high performance X-ray optics. Excellent quality mirror plates have been produced and successfully stacked into modules and assembled into petals. The mirror elements are fully mounted into double-reflection mirror modules and tested both at synchrotron radiation facilities and at the full illumination Panter facility.

A summary of the specific requirements and boundary conditions for the IXO X-ray optics will be provided, followed by an outline and status of the technology development activities.