AMEGO: Simulations of the Instrument Performance

ORAL

Abstract

The gamma-ray energy range from several hundred keV to a hundred MeV has remained largely unexplored since the observations by instruments on the Compton Gamma-Ray Observatory (1991- 2000) and on INTEGRAL (since 2002). This energy range is particularly challenging because it is firmly in the Compton-dominated regime where the interaction cross section is minimized. Accurate measurements are critical for answering a broad range of astrophysical questions. To address these questions, we are developing AMEGO: All-sky Medium Energy Gamma-ray Observatory, to investigate the energy range from 200 keV to >10 GeV with good energy and angular resolution and with sensitivity approaching a factor of 20-50 better than previous measurements. This instrument will be capable of measuring both Compton-scattering events at lower energies and pair-production events at higher energies. To achieve these ambitions goals Monte Carlo (MC) simulations will play a crucial role guiding the design of AMEGO. I will present an overview of the AMEGO simulation campaign using the MEGAlib framework, as well as the initial results for effective area and angular resolution, as well as sensitivity projections.

Presenters

  • Regina M Caputo

    NASA Goddard Space Flight Center

Authors

  • Regina M Caputo

    NASA Goddard Space Flight Center

  • Carolyn Kierans

    NASA/GSFC, NASA Goddard Space Flight Center

  • Judith L Racusin

    NASA Goddard Space Flight Center

  • Fabian Kislat

    University of New Hampshire