Space scientists in Japan hope to launch a new type of X-ray spectrometer
into orbit this week. Instead of measuring X-rays in the conventional way by
converting them into an electrical charge, the XRS will measure the heat created
by individual X-ray photons. This demands a high sensitivity, so the
spectrometer will be cooled close to absolute zero—to 0.06 kelvin. The
XRS, mounted on a spacecraft called Astro-E, will turn its sights on galaxy
clusters, supermassive black holes, neutron stars, supernova remnants and the
coronas of hot stars.
More from New Scientist
Explore the latest news, articles and features
Technology
Test moderators use AI-generated writing to judge literacy standards
News
Mind
THC in cannabis may reduce nightmares in people with PTSD
News
Environment
Fishers detonate a bomb every hour on one Indonesian coral reef
News
Environment
How bad is the UK drought and how long will it continue?
News
Popular articles
Trending New Scientist articles