Design and development of conical X-ray imaging mirrors

Abstract

The basic principles for the design of conical optics, and the development of an arc-minute quality conical mirror are described. Computer ray tracing data for over 100 conical mirror designs are analyzed in order to study the intrinsic capabilities of conical mirrors; the intrinsic spatial resolution and approximate filling factor are considered. The procedures for the fabrication of a conical mirror for the Broad-Band X-ray Telescope experiment to be flown on the Shuttle are examined. A f/10 conical mirror with 3.8 m focal length and a filling factor of about 60 percent, consisting of 18 nested reflector pairs has been developed. The difference between the intrinsic and measured half-power radii is investigated. Methods for improving the spatial resolution of conical mirrors are being researched. The advantages and disadvantages of conical mirrors are discussed. It is noted that conical mirrors are applicable for studies in which a broad bandpass, moderate spatial resolution, and a small number of mirrors are required.