1 Images

This is a segment of fused quartz that was cut off during fabrication of the X-ray mirror for the Einstein Observatory satellite. The first cosmic sources of X-ray were discovered by Richard Giacconi and his group at American Science and Engineering. They went on to develop and operate Uhuru, the first orbiting satellite dedicated to the study of X-ray sources in the Universe. The group then moved to the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory where they perfected imaging X-ray telescopes. Under Giacconi's leadership they developed and operated the imaging telescope on the orbiting Einstein Observatory which flew in 1978. This mirror segment was donated to NASM by AS&E in 2003 and is now stored at the Garber facility.

Display Status

This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.

Object Details

Country of Origin

United States of America

Type

INSTRUMENTS-Scientific

Dimensions

3-D: 31.4 × 6 × 5.4cm (1 ft. 3/8 in. × 2 3/8 in. × 2 1/8 in.)

Materials

Inorganics, possibly Fused quartz

Inventory Number

A20030006000

Credit Line

Gift of American Science & Engineering Incorporated.

Data Source

National Air and Space Museum

Restrictions & Rights

Usage conditions apply
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