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Alexander Kay – University of Iowa

Alexander Kay – University of Iowa

Student: Alexander Kay, Undergraduate Student in Physics and Astronomy, University of Iowa

Research Mentor: Casey DeRoo

Adjustable X-Ray Optics

My research is centered on the domain of X-ray astronomy, where we explore the extreme phenomena of the universe. X-ray telescopes necessitate precision to capture faint signals, given their operation at grazing incidence angles. However, during launch and gravitational release, vibrations induce low-frequency errors, which degrade image quality. To tackle this challenge, my focus lies in the development of correctable X-ray optics. These optics harness the inverse piezoelectric effect to rectify errors. Although they are not designed to address large low-frequency errors, they can effectively correct disturbances incurred during launch and deployment. My primary objective is to fabricate gold-plated, miniaturized X-ray optics with a particular emphasis on optimizing the slumping process of the glass substrates. This procedure entails thermal slumping of the glass, followed by gold coating. Using an interferometer, I investigate how variations in slumping parameters impact optic precision. Through the fine-tuning of these parameters, my research endeavors to consistently attain precise curvature, thereby maximizing the potential correction range offered by piezoelectric actuators. Ultimately, this work has the potential to enhance the imaging performance of X-ray telescopes, making contributions to the field of X-ray astronomy.

2023-2024, Undergraduate