Jammed door on XRISM telescope blocks low-energy X-ray observation

Astronomers were thrilled at the prospect of uncovering new insights into the universe's formation and dark matter through the X-Ray Imaging and Spectroscopy Mission (XRISM), a collaborative project between the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) and NASA.

The telescope, launched successfully in September 2023, encountered an unexpected problem: one of the aperture doors covering its primary instrument, Resolve, which detects particles, became jammed. This malfunction has caused significant concern among scientists.

Photo credit: JAXA

XRISM's Resolve (XRISM’s onboard soft X- ray spectrometer) captures Perseus cluster X-ray spectrum

Efforts to remotely open the jammed door have been unsuccessful. NASA has confirmed to Space.com that the intended 18-month operation of the telescope is now uncertain, as officials deliberate on the best course of action. This is particularly disappointing since XRISM was expected to serve as a powerful successor to NASA's older Chandra X-ray Observatory, which is facing potential budgetary constraints threatening its operations.

Photo credit: JAXA

H-IIA F47 launching XRISM and SLIM from JAXA Tanegashima Space Center

Despite the issue, there is a positive aspect to Resolve's door malfunction. While the instrument cannot measure low-energy X-rays with the door closed, it remains capable of detecting high-energy X-rays, as these wavelengths are unaffected by the obstruction.

However, the situation remains disheartening for scientists who had anticipated groundbreaking advancements in X-ray astronomy. "I am absolutely gutted that we can't see below 2 keV," Simionescu told Space.com.

Photo credit: JAXA

Visit the XRISM project website