IXPE: The Imaging X-ray Polarimetry Explorer

Launched on December 9, 2021, the Imaging X-ray Polarimetry Explorer (IXPE) is a NASA Small Explorer Mission designed to open up a new window of investigation – x-ray polarimetry. The IXPE observatory contains three identical telescopes each consisting of a mirror module assembly with a polarization-sensitive imaging x-ray detector at its focus. An extending boom, deployed on orbit, provides the necessary 4 m focal length. A three-axis stabilized spacecraft provides power, attitude determination and control, commanding, and telemetry to the ground. During its 2-year baseline mission, IXPE will conduct precise polarimetry for samples of multiple categories of x-ray sources, with follow-on observations of selected targets. IXPE is a partnership between NASA and the Italian Space Agency (ASI).