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.