Microcombs for X-ray telescopes
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Microcombs for X-ray telescopes
Microcombs. Researcher holding several microcombs designed to hold the foil " mirrors" in orbiting X- ray telescopes. These tiny, lightweight devices must be accurate on the nanometre scale to give the desired image quality. X-ray telescopes, such as the XMM-Newton, do not use lenses or conventio- nal mirrors. Instead they use arrays of concentric tubular mirrors that taper slightly towards the detector, focusing X-rays on it by grazing- incidence reflection. The quality of the resulting image depends on the precision of the mounting of the mirrors. It is hoped that these microcombs will allow much greater resolution to be achieved. Photographed at MIT, USA, in 2002
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Media ID 6429019
© VOLKER STEGER/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Astrophysical Astrophysics Clean Room Development Manufacture Massachusetts Institute Of Mechanical Micro Micromechanical Micromechanics Nanotechnology Protective Clothing Researcher Sterile Us A
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the intricate world of microcombs, specifically designed for X-ray telescopes. In the image, a dedicated researcher is seen delicately holding several microcombs that are crucial components in orbiting X-ray telescopes. These tiny devices have been meticulously engineered to securely hold the foil "mirrors" used in these advanced telescopes. Unlike traditional lenses or mirrors, X-ray telescopes like the renowned XMM-Newton employ arrays of concentric tubular mirrors that gradually narrow towards the detector. By utilizing grazing-incidence reflection, they effectively focus X-rays onto the detector surface. The precision and accuracy of these mirror mountings directly impact the resulting image quality. The significance of this breakthrough lies in its potential to revolutionize resolution capabilities within astronomical observations. With their nanometer-scale accuracy requirements, these microcombs offer hope for achieving unprecedented levels of image sharpness and clarity. Captured at MIT in 2002, this photograph not only highlights cutting-edge research but also emphasizes the critical role played by technology advancements such as micromechanics and nanotechnology in astrophysics. The sterile environment depicted reflects a clean room setting necessary for manufacturing these delicate microcombs. While it's important to note that commercial use is not mentioned here, this remarkable image serves as a testament to human ingenuity and our relentless pursuit of unraveling mysteries beyond our planet's atmosphere.
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