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Updated: Jun 13, 2026
08:53
Angle-resolved Photoemission Spectroscopy At Ultra-low Temperatures
Published on: October 9, 2012
Extreme ultraviolet imaging spectrometer for thermospheric emissions.
1Utah State University, Department of Physics, Center for Atmospheric & Space Sciences, Logan, Utah 84322, USA.
Applied Optics
|April 17, 2010
Summary
A new extreme ultraviolet spectrometer on the Space Shuttle provides detailed atmospheric data. This instrument enables enhanced studies of the thermosphere and magnetosphere using simultaneous spectral and spatial imaging.
Area of Science:
- Space physics
- Atmospheric science
- Spectroscopy
Background:
- The Space Shuttle has been equipped with the Imaging Spectrometric Observatory, featuring five spectrometers covering 300-12,000 Angstroms.
- Previous instruments lacked the capability for detailed atmospheric analysis in specific wavelength ranges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe an extreme ultraviolet (300-1200 Angstroms) spectrometer designed for Space Shuttle missions.
- To support studies of the thermosphere, magnetosphere, and plasma experiments.
Main Methods:
- The spectrometer utilizes an intensified 2-D CCD detector for simultaneous spectral and spatial imaging.
- A modular design allows for component optimization for various studies.
- A small field of view (0.65 degrees) facilitates scale height determination of EUV emissions.
Main Results:
- The instrument achieves a considerable speed advantage due to spectral multiplexing.
- Simultaneous spectral and spatial imaging capabilities are demonstrated.
- The spectrometer is capable of obtaining crucial scale height information for atmospheric EUV emissions.
Conclusions:
- The developed extreme ultraviolet spectrometer is a valuable tool for atmospheric and space physics research from the Space Shuttle.
- Its modular design and advanced detector allow for flexible and detailed observations.
- Combined with other spectral observations, it enhances the understanding of Earth's upper atmosphere and magnetosphere.
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