Scientific Design and Optimization of a Coded Mask Hard X-Ray Telescope

The design of a coded mask X-ray instrument depends on a combination of factors: its target function (monitor, spectroscope, etc.), the field of view, the energy range and, therefore, the detection device. Recently, the high pressures attainable in gas detectors for use in space and the outcome of ultrafast electronics techniques have made proportional counters well suited for observations in the energy range from a few keV up to 200 keV. In this medium-hard X-ray range, the use of a large area detector must be coupled to an efficient shielding to reduce cosmic diffuse background.