Future space applications of compound semiconductor X-ray detectors

Detectors based on compound semiconductors have now reached a level of maturity, where they can be considered for use in a variety of space-based applications involving X-ray imaging optics. The possible range of space applications is reviewed and the key future requirements of these detectors are discussed. These X-ray detectors will play a major role in future astrophysics and planetary missions. Recent results on the agency's X-ray detector research and development program into such materials as TIBr, epitaxial GaAs and CdZnTe are presented. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.