Continuum background in space-borne gamma-ray detectors

L. G. Evans, J. I. Trombka, R. Starr, W. V. Boynton, S. H. Bailey

Research output: Contribution to conferencePaperpeer-review

2 Scopus citations

Abstract

Instrumental backgrounds present a basic limitation to the sensitivity for any gamma-ray detector. This background consists of both discrete lines and a continuum. The discrete background lines are especially important if they occur at the same energies as lines of interest needed for the meeting the science objectives of the mission. The continuum background imposes a limit on the signal to noise ratio that can be achieved. Measurements of the gamma-ray continuum background made during the cruise portion of a number of planetary missions are compared. All of these missions used shields to reduce the continuum background. Measurements made during spaceflight can be used to test the effectiveness of different shield designs.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages101-103
Number of pages3
StatePublished - 1997
EventProceedings of the 1997 Conference on the High Energy Radiation Background in Space - Snowmass, CO, USA
Duration: Jul 22 1997Jul 23 1997

Other

OtherProceedings of the 1997 Conference on the High Energy Radiation Background in Space
CitySnowmass, CO, USA
Period7/22/977/23/97

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Radiation

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