Compton telescope

A gamma-ray detector design based on the detection of a Compton scattering interaction of a gamma ray in a first detector, usually a plastic scintillator, followed by the detection of the Compton scattered photon in a second detector. This method allows the simultaneous determination of photon direction and energy to be made. An imaging Compton telescope (COMPTEL) is part of the Compton Gamma Ray Observatory.

Collins Dictionary of Astronomy © Market House Books Ltd, 2006

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References in periodicals archive

In imaging the spray of neutron particles from the sun, the Compton Telescope made astronomical history The blurry picture marks the first time that researchers have used neutrons to image any celestial object.

Magnetic activity: a flare for research

GRO's Compton Telescope observed gamma rays bursting from two of the flares, and also appears to have recorded neutrons, says astrophysicist James M.

Fortnight of flares dazzles astronomers

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