High-Resolution X-ray Spectroscopy with a Grating Spectrometer Explorer on the ISS
Abstract
We present the design and scientific motivation for a X-ray grating spectrometer mission to be deployed on the International Space Station. This mission would observe the Warm-Hot Intergalactic Medium, feedback from supermassive black holes, and the structure of the interstellar medium and halo of the Milky Way, amongst other goals. The mission requirements are similar to those of the IXO X-ray Grating Spectrometer of R=3000 and 1000 cm(2) \ of effective area at 0.5 keV, with a full bandpass covering at least between 0.3-1 keV. Our initial design baselines the silicon pore optics proposed for ESA's Athena mission with a 4.3 m focal length, paired with off-plane gratings being developed at the University of Iowa combined with MIT/Lincoln Labs CCDs. This mission would achieve core science described in the 2010 New Worlds, New Horizons Decadal survey performed by the US National Research Council while effectively using the ISS and at low cost and low risk.
- Publication:
-
40th COSPAR Scientific Assembly
- Pub Date:
- 2014
- Bibcode:
- 2014cosp...40E3146S