Broad-Band Soft X-ray Polarimetry

Kavli Affiliate: Ralf Heilmann

| First 5 Authors: Herman L. Marshall, Ralf Heilmann, Norbert Schulz, Kendrah Murphy,

| Summary:

We developed an instrument design capable of measuring linear X-ray
polarization over a broad-band using conventional spectroscopic optics. A set
of multilayer-coated flats reflects the dispersed X-rays to the instrument
detectors. The intensity variation with position angle is measured to determine
three Stokes parameters: I, Q, and U — all as a function of energy. By
laterally grading the multilayer optics and matching the dispersion of the
gratings, one may take advantage of high multilayer reflectivities and achieve
modulation factors > 50% over the entire 0.2 to 0.8 keV band. This instrument
could be used in a small orbiting mission or scaled up for the International
X-ray Observatory. Laboratory work has begun that would demonstrate the
capabilities of key components.

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