Polarimetric observation of gamma-ray bursts utilizing a micro-satellite

2015 Fiscal Year Final Research Report

• Project/Area Number: 24740121
• Research Category: Grant-in-Aid for Young Scientists (B)
• Allocation Type: Multi-year Fund
• Research Field: Astronomy
• Research Institution: Tokyo Institute of Technology
• Principal Investigator: Yatsu Yoichi 東京工業大学, 理工学研究科, 助教 (40447545)
• Project Period (FY): 2012-04-01 – 2016-03-31
• Keywords: 偏光 / ガンマ線バースト / 超小型衛星 / アバランシェ・フォトダイオード / SiPM(MPPC)

Outline of Final Research Achievements

Development and flight operation of a micro-satellite for polarimetry of gamma-ray burst prompt emission is reported. The gamma-ray detector system was equipped with the brand new technologies, such as high efficiency shock-resistive PMTs, avalanche photodiodes, and custom designed ASICs for signal readout, to achieve high sensitivity under the limited configuration. The pre-flight performance of the detector system was measured utilizing the synchrotron beam facility, and we confirmed that the detector satisfied the design performance. Finally the satellite was launched on Nov 6, 2014 from Kazakhstan. After the separation from the launch vehicle, the satellite successfully de-tumbled, acquired the sun and took spin-stabilized attitude with magnetic torquers. However the satellite encountered a fatal trouble in the RF communication system, meaning that the satellite became into the out of control. Therefore we carefully analyzed the telemetry data and clarified the failure point.

Free Research Field

X線・ガンマ線天文学実験