X-ray Multi-mirror Mission (XMM-Newton) observatory

X-ray Multi-mirror Mission (XMM-Newton) has been one of the most successful astronomy missions launched by the European Space Agency. The mission exploits innovative use of replication technology for the x-ray reflecting telescopes that has resulted in an unprecedented combination of effective area and resolution. Three telescopes are equipped with imaging cameras and spectrometers that operate simultaneously, together with a coaligned optical telescope. The key features of the payload are described, and the in-orbit performance and scientific achievements are summarized. (C) 2012 Society of Photo-Optical Instrumentation Engineers (SPIE). [DOI: 10.1117/1.OE.51.1.011009]