Detector development and optimization for space based astronomy from satellites and balloons

Abstract

The field of experimental X-ray astronomy has undergone a long way since the first observation of extra-terrestrial X-ray dated back to sixties. Several techniques have been developed and used since then for detection of these radiations. There have been numerous missions with various kinds of detectors onboard sounding rockets, scientific balloons or satellite platforms. Several space agencies have been involved in such experiments world wide. In recent years a trend of using light-weight payloads has come through for this purpose, thanks to the technological advancements and miniaturization of instruments. Small payloads in the form of cubesats or nanosats are being used at the orbits. Also light-weight and specially designed payloads are being used onboard meteorological balloons for certain observations on X-ray astronomy. Here is a brief review of some recent developments in this field of instrumentation in X-ray astronomy, particularly in Indian context.