A space fiber-optic x-ray burst detector

Conference · Fri Oct 01 00:00:00 EDT 1993

OSTI ID:10193736

Moss, C E; Casperson, D E; Echave, M A; Edwards, B C; Miller, J R; Saylor, W W; Sweet, M R; Valencia, J E

We describe a novel, lightweight x-ray burst detector that can be embedded in a satellite structure, thus forming a ``smart skin,`` which has minimal impact on the host satellite. The design is based on two types of optical fibers coupled to photodiodes. The first is a scintillating fiber, which gives a fast signal for timing. The second is a germanium-doped silica fiber, which darkens for a few milliseconds when irradiated with a burst of x rays. The resulting slow signal is used to discriminate against electrostatic discharges. The coincidence of a fast signal from the scintillating fiber with a slow signal from the darkening fiber is the signature of an x-ray burst. The response is linear at low doses and becomes nonlinear at high doses. We have two techniques to test the instrument in a space experiment scheduled for 1994. First, a small, space-qualified flash x-ray unit can illuminate the fibers. Second, we can detect space background radiation. The cumulative dose will be monitored by RADFET dosimeters. Future work on embedding the fibers and the electronics as Application Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs) in the spacecraft skin could lead to use of these detectors on many satellites.

• Research Organization: Los Alamos National Lab., NM (United States)
• Sponsoring Organization: Department of Defense, Washington, DC (United States)
• DOE Contract Number: W-7405-ENG-36
• OSTI ID: 10193736
• Report Number(s): LA-UR-93-3807; CONF-931107-7; ON: DE94002722
• Resource Relation: Conference: 1993 IEEE nuclear science symposium and medical imaging conference,San Francisco, CA (United States),2-5 Nov 1993; Other Information: PBD: Oct 1993
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

45 MILITARY TECHNOLOGY, WEAPONRY, AND NATIONAL DEFENSE
46 INSTRUMENTATION RELATED TO NUCLEAR SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
SATELLITES
SCINTILLATION COUNTERS
DESIGN
X-RAY DETECTION
FIBER OPTICS
SPACE
BACKGROUND RADIATION
INTEGRATED CIRCUITS
BALLISTIC MISSILE DEFENSE
450500
440100
STRATEGIC DEFENSE INITIATIVE
RADIATION INSTRUMENTATION