| Popis: |
Filters fabricated from metalized polyimide have been specified for a number of x-ray astronomy missions, including the Advanced X-ray Astrophysics Facility (AXAF), the x-ray spectrometer (XRS) on Astro-E, the Advanced Composition Explorer (ACE), and the Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite (GOES). Polyimide offers greater strength, improved temperature stability, and effectiveness in blocking unwanted ultraviolet radiation compared to polymeric films previously employed. This paper reviews the various x- ray astronomy missions and the particular challenges that were met with polyimide filters. The paper also reviews the development of free standing thin foils of polyimide with mechanical properties optimized for x-ray astronomy and other applications, such as synchrotron research. |
