XPoSat: India's Breakthrough in X-ray Polarimetry Mission
Description
XPoSat: India's Breakthrough in X-ray Polarimetry Mission
Description: XPoSat, ISRO's groundbreaking mission, ventures into celestial X-ray polarization, equipped with POLIX and XSPECT payloads. Explore its orbit, objectives, and significance in revolutionizing space-based X-ray missions.
XPoSat, the second satellite-based mission globally dedicated to X-ray polarimetry measurements, marks a significant achievement for the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). Launched on January 1, it has entered a precise circular orbit of 650 km after a 21-minute flight.
Unveiling XPoSat's Purpose
XPoSat represents India's inaugural venture into analyzing X-ray polarization from celestial sources in the medium frequency band. Developed by the Raman Research Institute and UR Rao Satellite Centre in Bengaluru, XPoSat comprises two essential payloads: Indian X-ray Polarimeter (POLIX) and X-ray Spectroscopy and Timing (XSPECT).
Orbital Parameters and Mission Duration
Positioned in a low earth orbit with a low inclination of approximately 6 degrees, XPoSat is set to operate for an estimated mission life of five years. The spacecraft will focus on observing polarized X-rays emitted by
Payload Details
• POLIX: Probing the Medium X-ray Band
POLIX, the world's first instrument designed for the medium X-ray energy band of 8 to 30 kilo electron Volts (keV), incorporates a collimator and four X-ray proportional counter detectors. Developed at Raman Research Institute, POLIX aims to observe astronomical sources and measure the degree and angle of polarization.
• XSPECT: Unraveling Soft X-ray Mysteries
XSPECT, designed for fast timing and high spectroscopic resolution in the soft X-ray energy band (0.8-15 keV), targets various sources such as X-ray pulsars, black hole binaries, neutron stars, and active galactic nuclei (AGNs). Its capabilities contribute to a deeper understanding of celestial bodies.
Significance of XPoSat Mission
• Breaking New Ground in X-ray Polarimetry
XPoSat is poised to revolutionize X-ray polarimetry measurements by enabling observations from bright sources in the medium energy band (8-30 keV). This approach, never attempted before, positions XPoSat as a game-changer in the field of space-based X-ray missions.
• Identified Observation Targets
The XPoSat team has identified numerous sources emitting X-rays, categorizing them into persistent sources (targeted and known sources) and transient sources (pulsars, active galactic nuclei, magnetars). This broadens the scope of research during the mission.
What is the polarisation of X-rays and why study it?
X-rays, comprising electric and magnetic waves, exhibit unique behavior when polarized. XPoSat aims to study polarized X-rays from magnetars, black holes, and neutron stars to unveil the nature of radiations and the underlying processes.
POLIX's measurements of the degree and angle of polarization will provide valuable insights into the environment surrounding black holes, neutron stars, and other cosmic entities. Combined with spectrographic, timing, and imaging data, this will enhance researchers' understanding of celestial bodies.
XPoSat vs. Global X-ray Missions
XPoSat stands out among X-ray polarimetry missions globally. While previous missions like HX-POL and XL-Calibur were balloon-based and short-duration experiments by NASA, India's AstroSat focused on timing and broadband spectroscopy, omitting polarisation studies. In 2021, NASA launched the Imaging X-ray Polarimetry Explorer (IXPE), complementing XPoSat and expanding the observational energy band.
Conclusion
XPoSat's successful launch and innovative approach to X-ray polarimetry measurements position India as a key player in advancing our understanding of the Universe. With its unique payloads and mission objectives, XPoSat promises groundbreaking discoveries in the realm of X-ray astronomy.
