Processing of interferometric fringe scanner data for the AXAF/TMA x-ray telescope

Area of Science:

• Optics and photonics
• Astrophysical instrumentation
• Data science and signal processing

Background:

• The Technology Mirror Assembly (TMA) was a technology demonstration for the Advanced X-Ray Astrophysics Facility (AXAF).
• Initial data processing of the TMA using an interferometric fringe scanner showed limitations in mid-frequency error correction.
• Improving mid-frequency errors is crucial for enhancing the spatial resolution of x-ray telescopes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and implement advanced data processing techniques for the TMA x-ray telescope.
• To further improve the mid-frequency errors of the TMA mirror.
• To maximize the recovery of high spatial frequencies from interferometric scan data.

Main Methods:

• Interleaving of multiple interferometric scans to increase data density and coverage.
• Optimal smoothing algorithms applied to the interleaved data to reduce noise.
• Interpolation techniques to create a uniform data grid for analysis.

Main Results:

• Demonstrated significant improvement in correcting mid-frequency errors of the TMA mirror.
• Successfully recovered higher spatial frequencies from the interferometric data.
• Provided sample results showcasing the effectiveness of the advanced processing techniques.

Conclusions:

• Advanced data processing, including scan interleaving and optimal interpolation, is effective in refining x-ray telescope mirror performance.
• These techniques enhance the spatial frequency content, leading to better image quality for astrophysical observations.
• The developed methods offer a pathway for improving future x-ray optics and instrumentation.