X-ray Grating Spectrometer
Overview
The Constellation-X X-ray Grating Spectrometer (XGS) will provide high spectral resolution in the 0.1-3 keV band. The XGS consists of an array of gratings that will intercept the converstion X-ray beam exiting the SXT mirrors and disperse it to a series of CCD detectors where the CCD energy resolution will separate the spatially overlapping spectral orders. Currently there are two configurations under consideration for the XGS: a transmission grating and an off-plane reflection grating.
Diagram showing the geometry of the two concepts for the XGS: a
transmission grating (right) and an off-plane reflection grating
(left).
(Click images for larger view.)
