X-ray astronomy instrumentation studies

Abstract

Preliminary designs were made for a multiplane, multiwire position sensitive proportional counter for X-ray use. Anode spacing was 2 mm and cathode spacing 1 mm. Assistance was provided in setting up and operating two multiwire proportional counters, one with 5 mm anode spacing, and the other with 2 mm spacing. Argon-based counter gases were used for preliminary work in assembling a working experimental system to measure xenon fluorescence yields. The design and specification of a high purity gas filling system capable of supplying mixtures of xenon and other gases to proportional counters was also performed. The system is mounted on a cart, is fully operational, and is flexible enough to be easily used as a pumping station for other clean applications. When needed, assistance was given to put into operation various computer-related pieces of equipment.