Quantum imaging monitoring and directional visualization of space radiation with timepix based SATRAM spacecraft payload in open space on board the ESA Proba-V satellite

摘要

The compact light weight SATRAM payload is operating in onboard ESA's Proba-V satellite in low Earth orbit since May 2013. Equipped with the Timepix detector the device can determine the composition and spectral characteristics of ionizing radiation (X-ray, light and heavy charged particles) in the satellite environment. Single quantum counting capability and per-pixel energy sensitivity enable quantum-level detection, high resolution tracking, LET sensitivity and directional visualization of energetic charged particles over a wide dynamic range of particle fluxes, energies and wide field of view. A description of the payload is presented together with preliminary data results such as spatial and time correlated maps of dose rate along the satellite orbit.