Development of 1D Lobster Eye Optics for a Wide-Field X-Ray Transient Monitor

The Astro2020 Decadal Survey recommended investment in Time Domain and Multi-Messenger Astrophysics (TDAMM) as the top-priority sustaining activity in space for the coming decade. A key goal for TDAMM is the prompt and accurate localization of high energy transients. This would enable multiwavelength study of transients, such as those produced in binary neutron star collisions, that have provided new insights into the universe. The X-ray band is particularly appealing for the localization of high energy transients because X-ray focusing optics can provide good angular resolution. Most efforts for X-ray optics with wide fields of view have employed 2-dimensional lobster eye optics. The angular resolution is limited because the optics are deformed by the slumping process used to produce spherical optics and the effective area is limited because X-rays are reflected only at grazing incidence. The 1D optics offer superior angular resolution and effective area. Sources can be localized on the sky using crossed pairs or multiples of optics. We propose to build and test a prototype 1D lobster eye optic. Successful development would enable a wide-field X-ray monitor providing prompt and accurate localization of high energy transients.

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