Low-background test capabilities for mm-wave to mid-IR astrophysics missions

Completed TRL 5 (started at 3, targeting 5)

Description

Detectors and instruments from mm-wavelengths to the mid-IR must have well-characterized noise and dynamic range in a relevant test environment. This requires 100 mK base temperatures for the detectors and well-characterized thermal loads running up to 40 K (or greater).

Benefits

These test capabilities do not yet exist, presenting a significant risk to schedule and detector development efforts in current and future instruments. We will establish new capabilities for optical testing, developing approaches for these measurements that can be used from mm-wave to mid-IR, and informing future implementations for large missions.

Details

Technology area	Sensors and Instruments > Remote Sensing Instruments and Sensors > Microwave, Millimeter Waves, and Submillimeter Waves
Program	Center Independent Research & Development: GSFC IRAD (GSFC IRAD)
Lead organization	Goddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt, MD
Start date	2021-10-01
End date	2022-09-30

Project contacts

Listed on TechPort itself — the most direct way to ask about this specific project.

David H Richardson — david.h.richardson@nasa.gov
Keith M Jahoda — keith.m.jahoda@nasa.gov
Eric R Switzer — eric.r.switzer@nasa.gov
Emily M Barrentine — emily.m.barrentine@nasa.gov
Jason Glenn — jason.glenn@nasa.gov
Omid Noroozian — omid.noroozian@nasa.gov
Thomas M Essinger-hileman — thomas.m.essinger-hileman@nasa.gov
Thomas R Stevenson — thomas.r.stevenson@nasa.gov

How to get involved

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 5) — the most realistic path in is NASA SBIR/STTR, which funds small businesses and research institutions to develop technology aligned with NASA's needs (equity-free, phased funding). Check whether a current SBIR/STTR solicitation topic overlaps with this project's technology area, or contact the project directly (above) to ask.

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