A general purpose calibration facility for use in x-ray astronomy (open access)

A general purpose calibration facility for use in x-ray astronomy

An x-ray calibration facility for use in the 0.2--25 keV region is described. The facility employs several types of specially modified sources and detectors to produce and detect both line and continuum radiation in this energy range. We describe an inexpensive commercial x-ray source which has been modified for efficient high intensity operation as well as production of x-rays up to 25 keV. We also describe a system that utilizes multilayer mirrors alone or in a double Bragg geometry to select an energy bandpass. This system is controlled by a microcomputer which translates and rotates the multilayers to provide an easily selectable monochromatic beam with good resolution over a broad energy range. A long focal length Kirkpatrick--Baez mirror pair has been coupled to a pivoting beam line in order to accurately characterize gratings for use in soft x-ray astronomy. The beam line is scanned through the various grating orders. All aspects of the facility incorporate high degree of flexibility so that a wide variety of calibrations can be easily performed. 12 refs., 5 figs.
Date: August 11, 1988
Creator: Craig, W. W.; Hailey, C. J.; Morales, R. I.; Kahn, S. M. & Wargelin, B. J.
System: The UNT Digital Library