High-Resolution Detectors for Imaging and Spectroscopy at Ultraviolet and Soft X-Ray Wavelengths

Abstract

AbstractThe Multi-Anode Microchannel Arrays (MAMAs) are a family of pulse-counting imaging array detectors designed specifically for astrophysical investigations in space. The MAMAs have a number of unique performance characteristics which make them particularly suitable for imaging and spectroscopy at ultraviolet and soft x-ray wavelengths. First, they employ “solar blind” photocathodes eliminating the “red leak” problem associated with solid state arrays such as the CCDs. Second, they operate with zero readout noise, yielding photon-statistics limited signals. Third, they utilize a random readout technique and can determine both the location of a detected photon and also its arrival time to an accuracy of the order of 100 ns. This paper will give an overview of the construction, mode-of-operation and performance characteristics of the MAMA detectors and will describe the current status of the development program.