Astronomy / Astronautics
High-quality crystals for demanding applications in astronomy and space travel
We offer high-quality crystals for a wide range of applications in astronomy and space travel. Our materials are characterised by the highest quality and purity and are used by our customers for further processing into optical components and systems.
Our crystals are used in:
Telescope construction (CaF2)
For lenses, prisms and other optical elements in telescopes that require high transmission in the UV range.
Spectrographs and gamma cameras (CeBr3, Eu:CaF2)
Spectrographs and gamma cameras used in astronomical research and space travel.
Mercury gamma ray and neutron spectrometer
neutron spectrometer
MGNS for the
BepiColombo mission
Components for space research (CaF2)
For optical components in satellites, space probes and other instruments that have to withstand the extreme conditions in space.
Radiation detection (CeBr3)
For detectors used in space travel to measure radiation, e.g. to monitor the space environment or to detect gamma radiation from distant galaxies.
Radiation detection: The importance of detecting gamma radiation
Gamma radiation is high-energy electromagnetic radiation produced by radioactive decay or other nuclear processes. Although it is invisible to the human eye, it can be harmful to health in the event of intensive exposure. The detection of gamma radiation is therefore of crucial importance in various areas.
Why do we need the detection of gamma radiation?
- Medicine: In nuclear medicine, radioactive substances are used for diagnosis and therapy. Gamma radiation enables the imaging of organs and tissues (e.g. scintigraphy) and the targeted destruction of tumour cells (radiotherapy). The detection of gamma radiation is essential here to ensure the correct dosage and to minimise radiation exposure for patients and staff.
- Industry: In industry, gamma radiation is used in non-destructive material testing, thickness measurement and fill level monitoring. By detecting gamma radiation, material defects can be identified, processes optimised and the safety of systems guaranteed.
- Environmental protection: Gamma radiation is released in the event of accidents in nuclear power plants or the improper disposal of radioactive waste. The detection of gamma radiation enables the monitoring of radioactivity in the environment, the identification of sources of contamination and the introduction of protective measures.
- Research: In astrophysics and particle physics, the detection of gamma radiation plays an important role in researching the universe and the fundamental building blocks of matter. Gamma-ray telescopes provide information about distant galaxies, supernovae and black holes.
How does the detection of gamma radiation work?
Gamma radiation can penetrate matter due to its high energy. Various physical effects that occur when gamma radiation interacts with matter are used for detection:
- Ionisation: Gamma quanta can ionise atoms, i.e. remove electrons from the atomic shell. This ionisation is measured in detectors such as Geiger-Müller counting tubes or ionisation chambers.
- Scintillation: In certain materials (scintillators), gamma quanta generate flashes of light that are amplified by photomultipliers and converted into electrical signals. Scintillation detectors are characterised by their high sensitivity.
- Pair formation: At very high energy, a gamma quantum can be converted into an electron and a positron. These particles are detected in special detectors.
The choice of detector depends on the particular application and the requirements for sensitivity, energy range and spatial resolution.
The detection of gamma radiation is therefore essential in many areas to ensure the safety of people and the environment, to enable technological progress and to expand our knowledge of the universe.