X-ray detectors for astrophysics

High-energy astrophysics provides a window to the hot and violent universe and the nature of compact objects, including black holes. Detector requirements are driven by the broad-radiation bandwidth of cosmic X-ray sources and also by their wide range of variability. The demands on X-ray cameras are described using science themes related to mass-accreting black holes. Wide-angle X-ray cameras (1-10 keV) are needed to define the status of the X-ray sky, since the large majority of black holes in the Galaxy are initially discovered as X-ray transients. Pointed X-ray telescopes are needed with sub-ms time resolution and broad energy sensitivity (e.g. 2-200 keV) to investigate accretion physics, relativistic jets, and possible applications for the theory of general relativity. On the other hand, the super-massive black holes in distant galaxies require X-ray focusing cameras with excellent spatial and spectral resolution. Astronomers must capitalize on the advances in detector technology with more efficient methods to adapt detectors to the space environment, while demonstrating the required level of assurances for acceptable risk. (C) 2004 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.