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Sasha Courtade
University of California, Berkeley
Sasha Courtade has made significant contributions to the field of space weather research with their work on the FoxSI (Fast X-Ray Spectrographic Imager) sounding rocket payload. Recent studies have focused on observing and characterizing faint solar coronal hard X-rays, utilizing advanced simulations and experimental techniques. The use of ray-tracing and simulation methods has improved understanding of ghost rays in the FoxSI experiment, while early results from the third FoxSI flight have provided valuable insights into the detector calibration process. Additionally, research on microchannel plate life testing for UV spectroscopy instruments and reducing singly reflected rays on Wolter-I focusing mirrors has further advanced the payload's capabilities, enabling more accurate observations of solar flares and their effects on space weather.