The coded mask of the ECLAIRs telescope onboard the SVOM space mission

Abstract

ECLAIRs is a hard X-ray coded-mask telescope onboard the SVOM space mission, designed to detect and localize high-energy transients, in particular gamma-ray bursts. Operating over the 4-150 keV energy range, ECLAIRs extends coded-mask imaging to an unusually low-energy threshold. Achieving sensitivity down to 4 keV while maintaining performance up to 150 keV motivated the development of a novel self-supporting coded mask. This design addresses both scientific and mechanical challenges through dedicated pattern-generation algorithms and an innovative stiffened sandwich structure. We present the rationale, development, and final implementation of the ECLAIRs coded mask.