Stanford/Msfc Rocket X-Ray Spectroheliograph

The first high resolution soft X-ray/EUV images of the Sun with normal incidence multilayer optics were obtained by the Stanford/MSFC Rocket X-Ray Spectroheliograph on October 23, 1987. Numerous images at selected wavelengths from 8 Å to 256 Å were obtained simultaneously by a diverse array of telescopes onboard. These telescopes included single reflection normal incidence multilayer systems (Herschelian), double reflection multilayer systems (Cassegrain), a grazing incidence mirror system (Wolter Schwarzschild), and Spectral Slicing systems using normal incidence multilayer optics in conjunction with the grazing incidence primary (Wolter-Cassegrain). Filters comprised of 1640 - 1720 Å aluminum supported on a nickel mesh were used to transmit the soft X-Ray/EUV radiation while preventing the intense visible light emission of the Sun from fogging the sensitive experimental T-grain photographic emulsions. These systems yielded high resolution soft x-ray/EUV images of the solar corona and transition region, which reveal magnetically confined loops of hot solar plasma, coronal plumes, polar coronal holes, supergranulation, and features associated with overlying cool prominences.