A Review of X-ray Microcalorimeters Based on Superconducting Transition Edge Sensors for Astrophysics and Particle Physics

The state-of-the-art technology of X-ray microcalorimeters based on superconducting transition-edge sensors (TESs), for applications in astrophysics and particle physics, is reviewed. We will show the advance in understanding the detector physics and describe the recent breakthroughs in the TES design that are opening the way towards the fabrication and the read-out of very large arrays of pixels with unprecedented energy resolution. The most challenging low temperature instruments for space- and ground-base experiments will be described.

Automated summary

This review discusses the state-of-the-art technology of X-ray microcalorimeters based on superconducting transition-edge sensors, focusing on their applications in astrophysics and particle physics. The article also highlights recent breakthroughs in TES design and the challenges faced in developing large arrays of pixels with unprecedented energy resolution for both space- and ground-based experiments.