Expected to launch in December 2021, the Imaging X-ray Polarimetry Explorer (IXPE) is a NASA Astrophysics Small Explorer Mission with significant contributions from the Italian space agency (ASI). Three identical x-ray telescopes combine to form the IXPE Observatory. Each is comprised of a 4-m-focal length mirror module assembly (MMA, provided by Marshall Space Flight Center) that focuses x-rays onto a polarization-sensitive, imaging detector (contributed by ASI-funded institutions). This paper describes the now-completed assembly process for the 3 flight and one spare mirror modules, and compares as-tested calibrated performance with as-built metrology data. Unexpected challenges and lessons-learned are also discussed.


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    Title :

    Assembly of the IXPE Mirror Modules


    Contributors:
    S. D. Bongiorno (author) / J. J. Kolodziejczak (author) / K. Kilaru (author) / R. Eng (author) / M. Stahl (author) / W. H. Baumgartner (author) / N. Thomas (author) / J. Ranganathan (author) / B. D. Ramsey (author) / J. Tucker (author)

    Publication date :

    2021


    Size :

    0 pages


    Type of media :

    Report


    Type of material :

    No indication


    Language :

    English




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