MIT: Independent Activities Period: IAP

IAP 2014



High-resolution x-ray optics at the Space Nanotechnology Laboratory: From nanometers to gigaparsecs

Dr. Ralf Heilmann, Principal Research Scientist, MIT Kavli Institute

Jan/28 Tue 02:30PM-03:00PM 37-252

Enrollment: Unlimited: No advance sign-up
Prereq: none

The Space Nanotechnology Laboratory (SNL) develops advanced lithography and nano-fabrication technology for high performance space instrumentation, as well as nanometer-accuracy metrology and assembly technology. Two current efforts are the development of nanofabricated soft x-ray gratings, the so-called critical-angle transmission (CAT) gratings, and the development of high-precision focusing X-ray mirrors. CAT gratings require the fabrication of sub-micron structures with extreme geometries and sub-nanometer precision, while x-ray mirrors are formed at 600 deg C while floating on porous air bearings. These efforts are aimed at instruments that can help find the missing baryons in the Cosmic Web and reveal the secrets of dark matter.

No enrollment limit, no advance sign up.

PLEASE NOTE:  There will be a tour of the Space Nanotechnology Laboratory from 3:15-4:15pm.  The pre-requisite for going on this tour is attending the two talks preceding the tour (2:00-2:30pm; 2:30-3:00pm).  The tour is limited to SIX people.

Sponsor(s): Kavli Institute for Astrophysics
Contact: Debbie Meinbresse, 37-241, 617 253-1456, MEINBRES@MIT.EDU