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Summary of the past, present and future of the X-ray astronomy

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Abstract.

The first cosmic X-ray source Sco X-1 was discovered with an Aerobee rocket in 1962 by Riccardo Giacconi. Since then, the field of X-ray astronomy developed significantly, not only in terms of capabilities and technology of X-ray observatories, but also in terms of theoretical understanding of a very wide range of astronomical objects and fields. The X-ray astronomy usually refers to the energy range of fractions of keV to a few hundred keVs, and creation of these photons in large amounts requires extremely high temperatures, magnetic fields, and extreme environments. This review summarizes the historical development of X-ray astronomy, provides introductory information regarding X-ray detectors and telescopes, discusses the current operational X-ray observatories, and finally introduces a sample of upcoming X-ray observatories that will revolutionize the field in the near future.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Sabanci University, 34956, Istanbul, Turkey

    Emrah Kalemci

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  1. Emrah Kalemci
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Correspondence to Emrah Kalemci.

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Kalemci, E. Summary of the past, present and future of the X-ray astronomy. Eur. Phys. J. Plus 133, 407 (2018). https://doi.org/10.1140/epjp/i2018-12284-6

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