Test and simulation of a Fast Neutron Imaging Telescope

The capability to detect fast neutrons with good angular and energy resolutions is gaining increased interest for different applications such as non-destructive testing, homeland security, and space-borne solar physics. To the latter aim, we recently developed and tested a novel type of instrument, the Fast Neutron Imaging Telescope (FNIT), for neutron spectroscopy and imaging in the 1–20 MeV range. Assessments of the instrument prototype performances, based on Monte Carlo simulations and on results from calibration tests performed in a monoenergetic neutron beam, are presented here. The purpose of the study is twofold: (1) to provide a comprehensive characterization of the prototype response, notably in terms of efficiency, event selection, energy and angular resolution; (2) to validate the simulation tool to support data analysis and reduction, and also to help in the design of more complex fast neutron telescopes.