This photograph shows the inner section of the X-ray Spectrometer (XRS). From the bottom, there is the cylindrical capsule containing paramagnetic crystals. Above this are connecting rods to transfer heat. Above this is the box-like structure that holds the microcalorimeter detector. Outer wires carry signals from the detector. The capsule containing the paramagnetic crystals will be submerged in a tank of liquid helium at 1.2 degrees Kelvin (about -458 Fahrenheit). The helium tank and superconducting magnet are not shown. XRS will be installed aboard the Astro-E X-ray satellite for Feb. 2000 launch.
Credit: XRS team, NASA
This photograph shows the outer section of the X-ray Spectrometer (XRS), specifically the dewar of solid neon at 17 degrees Kelvin (about -429 Fahrenheit). The frame surrounding the dewar will hold the mirror assembly for the telescope. XRS will be installed aboard the Astro-E X-ray satellite for Feb. 2000 launch.
Credit: XRS team, NASA/ISAS
This schematic diagram of the X-ray Spectrometer (XRS) shows the outer dewar of solid neon at 17 degrees Kelvin (about -429 Fahrenheit); the inner dewar of liquid helium at 1.2 degrees Kelvin (about -458 Fahrenheit); the Adiabatic Demagnetization Refrigeration (ADR), which contains the superconducting magnet and paramagnetic crystals (or salt pill); and the Front-End Assembly (FEA), which contains the microcalorimeter detector. XRS will be installed aboard the Astro-E X-ray satellite for Feb. 2000 launch.
Credit: XRS team, NASA/ISAS
The Astro-E satellite in orbit. Launch date is planned for February 2000.
Credit: XRS team, NASA/ISAS
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