Versatile Computational Pixel Infrared Land Imager

We propose to develop a revolutionary infrared focal plane array based on a computational pixel digital readout integrated circuit (D-ROIC) and a type-II superlattice (T2SL) dual-band unipolar barrier infrared detector (BIRD) capable of spectral coverage from the near infrared to the very long wavelength infrared. Focal plane arrays (FPAs) based on T2SL BIRD technology have consistently demonstrated high uniformity and operability, as well as excellent performance and cost-effectiveness. The D-ROIC with computational pixel imager (CPI) technology has large effective well depth and in-pixel processing power for building disruptive new capabilities into the pixel and onto the focal plane. The combination of T2SL-BIRD and CPI D-ROIC technologies will result in infrared imaging FPAs with higher operating temperature, wide spectral coverage, large ground swath/resolution, and exceptional versatility to enable striking improvements in observational capability and operational efficiency for land imaging.

Accelerate mission development, reduce risks and costs for future Sustainable Land Imaging missions

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 4) — 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.

None of these are guaranteed paths for this specific project — TechPort itself doesn't have an "apply" button. Reaching out to the contact(s) above with a specific question is usually the fastest way to find out what's actually open.