APPLICATION OF MICROSTRIP PROPORTIONAL-COUNTERS AT THE DANISH-PACE-RESEARCH-INSTITUTE

The low energy proportional counter LEPC (0.2-8 keV) and the high ener gy proportional counter HEPC (2-25 keV) for the Danish-Russian X-ray t elescopes XSPECT/SODART are presently being tested at DSRI. The sensor principle of these detectors is based on the novel microstrip proport ional counter (MSPC) where the strip electrodes are deposited by photo lithography onto a rigid substrate. The MSPC offers many advantages: a uniform gas gain, excellent energy (approximately 13% at 6 keV) and p osition-resolutions (much-less-than 1 mm), a fast charge collection an d a low operating voltage. The energy response, imaging and background rejection performance of LEPC (82 x 82 mm) and HEPC (empty set = 160 mm) will be discussed. The presentation will also include first result s obtained with a high energy (approximately 150 keV) MSPC which is pl anned as a candidate for the X-ray monitor for the International Gamma -Ray Astrophysical Laboratory (INTEGRAL).