SciSim: the XMM-Newton x-ray observatory data simulator

C. Gabriel; A. Ibarra Ibaibarriaga; J. Hoar

doi:10.1117/12.613895

18 August 2005 SciSim: the XMM-Newton x-ray observatory data simulator

C. Gabriel, A. Ibarra Ibaibarriaga, J. Hoar

Proceedings Volume 5898, UV, X-Ray, and Gamma-Ray Space Instrumentation for Astronomy XIV; 58981O (2005) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.613895
Event: Optics and Photonics 2005, 2005, San Diego, California, United States

Abstract

SciSim is a complete simulator for the XMM-Newton X-ray observatory. Its purpose is to generate realistic simulated science data for a wide range of observational scenarios. SciSim is comprised of a number of separate simulators for the various components of the telescope and instruments on the XMM-Newton satellite. These act behind a Cosmic Simulator (CSIM), which allows the user to create source data, either through extracting sources from a catalogue, placing sources manually or simulating the sky. A ray generator (GSIM) generates data from the source for ray tracing, which is then fed down a pipeline formed by the spacecraft and instrument simulators. A fully configurable detailed physical description of all components, spacecraft, mirrors, gratings and CCD cameras, together with their interactions with X-rays, provide the means to perform deep simulation studies. The output of the simulations can be converted into a format compatible with the XMM-Newton Science Analysis System, and thus may be reduced in an identical manner to a real sky observation. The aim of the system is multiple: to develop observation strategies, to understand calibration effects and eventual aging / malfunction of the different components, to optimize analysis tools and algorithms and as an astrometry aided tool, that can be used during mission planning phases.

Citation Download Citation

C. Gabriel, A. Ibarra Ibaibarriaga, and J. Hoar "SciSim: the XMM-Newton x-ray observatory data simulator", Proc. SPIE 5898, UV, X-Ray, and Gamma-Ray Space Instrumentation for Astronomy XIV, 58981O (18 August 2005); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.613895

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