Scientific Productivity with X-ray All-Sky Monitors

TL;DR

This paper discusses the potential of wide-angle, coded mask X-ray monitors for real-time sky observation, improving data quality, and advancing high-energy astrophysics and applications in general relativity.

Contribution

It presents scientific objectives and technological advancements for X-ray all-sky monitors, emphasizing real-time monitoring and data quality improvements.

Findings

Instantaneous viewing of half the sky is feasible.

Solid state detectors enhance data quality for bright sources.

Multiple pathways exist to advance high-energy astrophysics.

Abstract

We outline scientific objectives for monitoring X-ray sources and transients with wide-angle, coded mask cameras. It is now possible to instantaneously view half of the sky over long time intervals, gaining access to events of extraordinary interest. Solid state detectors can raise the quality of data products for bright sources to levels associated with pointed instruments. There are diverse ways to advance high energy astrophysics and quantitative applications for general relativity.