Global spectroscopy and imaging of atmospheric x-ray bremsstrahlung: instrumentation and initial results from the PEM/AXIS instrument aboard the upper-atmosphere research satellite

David L. Chenette; Dayton W. Datlowe; William L. Imhof; T. L. Schumaker; J. D. Tobin

doi:10.1117/12.60596

29 June 1992 Global spectroscopy and imaging of atmospheric x-ray bremsstrahlung: instrumentation and initial results from the PEM/AXIS instrument aboard the upper-atmosphere research satellite

David L. Chenette, Dayton W. Datlowe, William L. Imhof, T. L. Schumaker, J. D. Tobin

Author Affiliations +

Proceedings Volume 1745, Instrumentation for Planetary and Terrestrial Atmospheric Remote Sensing; (1992) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.60596
Event: San Diego '92, 1992, San Diego, CA, United States

Abstract

The Atmospheric X-ray Imaging Spectrometer (PEM/AXIS) aboard NASA's Upper Atmosphere Research Satellite (UARS) provides continuous horizon to horizon images, both day and night, of the 3to 100-keY x-ray flux emitted from the top of the atmosphere. AXIS achieves a spatial resolution to better than 100 km using a 1—dimensional array of 16 passively cooled silicon detectors. The primary purpose of this instrument is to provide a global monitor of electron energy input to the upper atmosphere. The intensity and energy distribution of electrons precipitating into the atmosphere can be inferred from the x-ray bremsstrahlung spectra. The resulting images and spectra are also a rich source of information on the structure and dynamics of the magnetosphere. AXIS is part of the Particle Environment Monitor (PEM) investigation on UARS, launched 12 September 1991 into a 585km by 57° inclination orbit. We describe the design, development, and calibration of AXIS and provide an assessment of its excellent on-orbit performance. The unique capabilities of x-ray imaging spectrometers are demonstrated through an analysis of specific examples from October and November 1991 .Important new developments for follow-on instruments also will be described.

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David L. Chenette, Dayton W. Datlowe, William L. Imhof, T. L. Schumaker, and J. D. Tobin "Global spectroscopy and imaging of atmospheric x-ray bremsstrahlung: instrumentation and initial results from the PEM/AXIS instrument aboard the upper-atmosphere research satellite", Proc. SPIE 1745, Instrumentation for Planetary and Terrestrial Atmospheric Remote Sensing, (29 June 1992); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.60596

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