Germanium γ-ray spectrometers

Potential uses of the Ge(Li) diode detector as part of a spectrometer system for space experimentation would include identification of energy sources and determination of the composition of materials. In laboratory experiments its greatest application is in low-energy nuclear physics, mainly (n, γ) reaction studies. The primary advantage in its present use is energy resolving capability. In future applications, as energy resolution is maintained close to the observed limit for the detector, increased attention must be given to optimization in terms of geometry. Further improvements are needed in the mechanical design of such systems, especially for experiments in space.