Randy McEntaffer

I specialize in the design, fabrication, testing, and implementation of diffraction gratings for high throughput, high resolving power astrophysical observations. My research topics include the fabrication of UV/X-ray gratings using nanofabrication methodologies, alignment and testing of aligned grating modules, and the incorporation of grating modules into space-based spectrometers. My astronomical interests include studying diffuse X-ray objects such as supernova remnants and their interactions with their environments.  Missions I’m currently working on will study a broad range of science goals ranging from the cycle of hot baryons in the Universe to the radiation environment around extrasolar planets.  In my free time I like to hang out with my wife and four children.  In my free–free time I enjoy fishing, gaming, and ultimate.