Summary
This technical paper documents the Hitomi (ASTRO-H) x-ray astronomy satellite, a sixth-generation Japanese mission developed by an international collaboration. Launched in February 2016, the spacecraft achieved the highest energy resolution ever attained above 2 keV through its microcalorimeter instrument and covered four decades of energy range. Although operational life was limited (lasting until March 2016), the commissioning phase yielded valuable performance data and astrophysical first-light observations.
UK applicability
This paper is not applicable to UK agricultural, soil health, or food systems research. It concerns space-based x-ray astronomy instrumentation and operations.
Key measures
X-ray energy resolution at E > 2 keV; instrument performance metrics; spacecraft system performance; energy range coverage (soft X-rays to gamma-rays)
Outcomes reported
The paper describes the Hitomi (ASTRO-H) x-ray astronomy satellite's capabilities, initial operation, and instrument performance during its commissioning phase. It reports astrophysical results obtained from first light observations and on-board systems performance.
Topic tags
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