Unlocking the Future of X-Ray Polarimetry with IXPE: Lessons Learned and Next Steps

Particles 2026 Open access

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Authors: Paolo Soffitta, Enrico Costa, Ettore Del Monte, Alessandro Di Marco, Sergio Fabiani, Riccardo Ferrazzoli, Fabio La Monaca, Fabio Muleri, Alda Rubini, Alessio Trois
DOI: 10.3390/particles9010002
Cited by: 1
References: 35

Abstract

This paper discusses issues encountered during the early development of the instrument on the Imaging X-ray Polarimetry Explorer (IXPE), a NASA–ASI Small Explorer mission launched on 9 December 2021. IXPE has observed about 100 sources, yielding meaningful polarimetry for most of them. An on-board calibration system mitigated most non-ideal detector behaviors during operations. Data from the on-board polarized and unpolarized X-ray sources are routinely ingested by the flight pipeline to correct the instrument response in a manner transparent to users. Based on its scientific return and payload health, the IXPE mission has been extended through 2028. The lessons learned are informing the design of next-generation X-ray polarimetry missions, as discussed elsewhere in these conferences.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Particle Detector Development and Performance Astrophysical Phenomena and Observations Advanced Semiconductor Detectors and Materials

Publication details

Journal / source
Particles
Publisher
MDPI AG
Volume
9
Issue
1
Pages
2–2
Publication date
6 January 2026
Language
EN