Dan McCammonView profile
Professor
Dan McCammon is a Professor in the Department of Physics at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, affiliated with the College of Letters & Science. His research focuses on X-ray astronomy, including studies of the diffuse X-ray background, interstellar and intergalactic media, and the development of advanced X-ray instrumentation. He is a key contributor to the XRISM (X-ray Imaging and Spectroscopy Mission) satellite, leading efforts in high-resolution X-ray spectroscopy and mission operations. McCammon's work emphasizes understanding cosmic plasma dynamics, galaxy cluster physics, and supernova remnant evolution through cutting-edge observational techniques and detector technology. His research interests span multiple subfields, including the thermodynamic properties of galactic clusters, charge-exchange processes in astrophysical plasmas, and the design of cryogenic microcalorimeters for space-based observatories. He has pioneered advancements in transition-edge sensors (TES) and superconducting detectors, enhancing the precision of X-ray spectral measurements. McCammon has contributed to numerous sounding rocket missions, such as Micro-X, and has been instrumental in the development of the Line Emission Mapper (LEM) probe concept, aimed at mapping the soft X-ray sky with unprecedented resolution. His work on the Hitomi (ASTRO-H) satellite demonstrated breakthroughs in resolving the thermal and dynamic properties of cosmic plasmas, such as the Perseus galaxy cluster and the Crab Nebula. His publications highlight a focus on high-resolution X-ray spectroscopy of cosmic sources, including galaxy clusters, active galactic nuclei, and supernova remnants. He has explored topics like non-thermal pressure contributions in cluster cores, ionized plasma diagnostics, and the role of charge-exchange emissions in interpreting diffuse X-ray backgrounds. McCammon's instrumentation innovations have enabled breakthroughs in measuring spectral features with sub-eV resolution, advancing our understanding of astrophysical processes. Despite the absence of explicitly listed awards or grants in the provided text, his leadership in major space missions and pioneering detector technologies underscores his contributions to the field. His research team collaborates on international projects, such as XRISM and LEM, reflecting a commitment to advancing observational astrophysics through interdisciplinary collaboration.














