Hard X-ray imaging observations of non-thermal phenomena in Universe

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In order to explore non-thermal Universe, we have developed hard X-ray telescopes and performed hard X-ray imaging balloon experiments five times, including test flights. We got some suggestions of non-thermal phenomena from observations.(1) Developments of hard X-ray telescopesAs the key technology to enhance hard X-ray reflection, we have developed Pt/C multilayer of graded density, so called "Super mirror". Multilayer deposited on a glass cylinder is replicated to the thin Al foil shells with epoxy layer. For the flight telescopes of balloon experiments, more than 1000 mirror shells were produced in our laboratory. They were assembled into a telescope and it was brought to the synchrotron beam facility for the calibration. In addition, we have introduced a machine to produce high precision metal mandrels. Finally we are successful to get amorphous Ni coated Al mandrel with 0.3 nm rms and less waviness than1 micron.(2) InFOCuS balloon experiments (May 31, 2004 and September 16, 2004 … More from Fort Sumner, NM, USA)We have collaborated with the NASA/GSFC team for InFOCuS project to perform hard X-ray imaging balloon experiments. In September 2004, we were successful to observe several objects, Cyg X-1, Her X-1, 4U 0115 and so on in the energy range from 25 to 40 keV, while the elevation drive system did not work well in May 2004. The pulse period and spectra were obtained from 4U 0115. Around CygX-1, some extended emission was found in the vicinity, which coincides with the radio lobe. It could be the emission from high energy particles by the inverse-Compton scattering.(3) SUMIT balloon experiment(November 19, 2006 from Brazil)After the test flights from Sanriku(May 2005) and from Brazil(December 2005), we have brought the balloon payload we have developed. Two hard X-ray telescopes were installed together with two imaging focal plane detectors. It was launched by ISAS/INPE balloon teams, on November 19, 2006. Most function of the system was tested in the assent, though the troubles of the ground station (power down) and transmission system prevented us to get real observational results.(4) Observation of clusters and active galactic nuclei with Newton and SuzakuWe also contributed to launch and operate Suzaku and are analyzing data from clusters and active galaxies. Less