SXT status.
Date: Thu, 3 Dec 92 10:56:57 +0900
From: acton (Loren W. Acton)

Greetings,

Whenever there is a problem with space instruments the rumors tend to fly. 
As a guide to communication about reality, here are the facts of the
present status of SXT.

1.  The x-ray observing capability of SXT is unchanged except
for the very faintest features which, under some conditions, may be
affected by stray visible light.

2.  It is no longer possible to make visible light images of the Sun.

The minor stray light in some x-ray images and loss of the visible image
capability is caused by a light leak through one of the SXT entrance
filters that developed over the period 27 October - 17 November 1992.  This
raises the level of visible light within the telescope.  I have no reason
to expect the present condition of SXT to change but in this business, who
can predict?

In conversations, especially with media people, please feel free to provide
this information.  If further details are sought please stick to the FACTS
of the matter.  The CAUSE is still under investigation and may or may
not ever be determined.  A couple of my own pet theories have already been
debunked!

With best regards,

Loren Acton