Characterization and modeling of transition edge sensors for high resolution X-ray calorimeter arrays

Abstract Characterizing and understanding, in detail, the behavior of a Transition Edge Sensor (TES) is required for achieving an energy resolution of 2 eV at 6 keV desired for future X-ray observatory missions. This paper will report on a suite of measurements (e.g. impedance and I – V among others) and simulations that were developed to extract a comprehensive set of TES parameters such as heat capacity, thermal conductivity, and R ( T , I ), α ( T , I ), and β i ( T , I ) surfaces. These parameters allow for the study of the TES calorimeter behavior at and beyond the small signal regime.