Presentation 1 : Oral
Micro-arc second angular resolution using Gamma-ray Fresnel Lenses
G.K. Skinner
At gamma-ray energies diffraction-limited optics of the order of a few metres in diameter can yield sub-micro-arc-second angular resolution. Furthermore, we now understand how diffraction limited gamma-ray Fresnel lenses of this size can be made. The focal lengths are of the order of one million kilometres, but techniques for formation-flying of satellites seem to be capable of maintaining two spacecraft at the required separation. Many problems remain to be resolved, but perhaps the new science of high angular resolution gamma-ray astronomy is within sight.