MIT modular x‐ray source systems for the study of plasma diagnostics

Two new x‐ray source systems are now on line at our facility. Each provides an e‐beam to 25 kV. Targets are interchangeable between machines, and four x‐ray detectors may be used simultaneously with a target. The gridded e‐gun of the RACEHORSE system gives a 0.5–1.0‐cm pulsable spot on target. The nongridded e‐gun of the SCORPION system provides a 0.3‐mm or smaller dc microspot on target. RACEHORSE is being used to study and characterize type‐II diamond photoconductors for use in diagnosing plasmas, while SCORPION is being used to develop a slitless spectrograph using photographic film. Source design details and some RACEHORSE results are presented.