X-ray performance of the LAMAR protoflight mirror

Area of Science:

• X-ray optics
• Astrophysical instrumentation
• Grazing incidence mirrors

Background:

• The LAMAR experiment requires high-performance X-ray mirrors for space-based astrophysics.
• Developing mirrors with precise angular resolution and environmental resilience is critical for mission success.

Purpose of the Study:

• To construct and test a Kirkpatrick-Baez grazing incidence X-ray mirror for the LAMAR experiment.
• To evaluate the mirror's angular resolution, environmental stability, and suitability for space shuttle launch conditions.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of a 100 cm long grazing incidence mirror with a 20x30 cm aperture.
• Measurement of angular resolution at 1.5 and 6.4 keV using a quasiparallel X-ray beam.
• Testing of mirror resilience to vibration, acceleration, and thermal variations.

Main Results:

• Achieved an angular resolution of 31 arcseconds half-power width (HPW) at 1.5 and 6.4 keV, and in visible light.
• The mirror demonstrated robustness against space shuttle launch vibration and acceleration levels with isolation pads.
• Resolution remained below 35 arcseconds HPW under thermal changes of 9.5°C and modest temperature gradients.

Conclusions:

• The constructed Kirkpatrick-Baez X-ray mirror meets stringent performance requirements for the LAMAR experiment.
• The mirror's design and materials ensure stability and high resolution under expected space mission conditions.
• This successful prototype is the first of eight mirrors, paving the way for the Shuttle High Energy Astrophysics Laboratory.