International Astrophysical Consortium for High-energy Calibration: Summary of the 15th IACHEC Workshop

TL;DR

This paper summarizes the 15th IACHEC workshop where scientists discussed cross-calibration of X-ray observatories, calibration sources, statistical techniques, and knowledge preservation to improve high-energy astrophysical measurements.

Contribution

It provides a comprehensive overview of recent efforts and collaborative activities in high-energy calibration among international X-ray observatories.

Findings

Advances in cross-calibration techniques

Identification of standard calibration sources

Development of new statistical methods

Abstract

In this report, we summarize the activities of the International Astronomical Consortium for High Energy Calibration (IACHEC) from the 15th IACHEC Workshop in Pelham, Germany. Sixty scientists directly involved in the calibration of operational and future high-energy missions gathered for 3.5 days to discuss the status of the cross-calibration between the current international complement of X-ray observatories and the possibilities to improve it. This summary consists of reports from the Working Groups with topics ranging across the identification and characterization of standard calibration sources, multi-observatory cross-calibration campaigns, appropriate and new statistical techniques, calibration of instruments and characterization of background, preservation of knowledge, and results for the benefit of the astronomical community.