Development of a Transition-Edge Sensor Anti-Coincidence Detector for a Probe Class Mission

Completed TRL 5 (started at 3, targeting 5)

Description

This proposal aims to mature the technical readiness level (TRL) of an anticoincidence detector for the Line Emission Mapper (LEM) probe class mission concept from TRL-3 to TRL-5. The focal plane for LEM requires a larger anti-co detector than ATHENA and XRISM while maintaining or exceeding their high-speed response, presenting a challenge for claiming technical readiness at the time of the announcement of opportunity (AO). Device fabrication, testing, and other needed verifications will be completed in time for an anticipated probe AO towards the end of 2023.

Benefits

LEM is an X-ray probe class mission concept to study galaxy evolution. The anti-co will detect and flag any events that could be confused with a science photon in the 0.2-2 keV signal band of LEM. This work will also benefit future mission concepts beyond LEM, such as fulfilling potential Lynx anti-co needs. The payoff is a leading role for GSFC in a window-opening X-ray spectroscopy mission that will launch early in the next decade.

Details

Technology area	Sensors and Instruments > Remote Sensing Instruments and Sensors > Detectors and Focal Planes
Program	Center Independent Research & Development: GSFC IRAD (GSFC IRAD)
Lead organization	Goddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt, MD
Start date	2022-10-01
End date	2023-09-30

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
Jennette N Mateo — jennette.mateo@nasa.gov
Caroline A Kilbourne — caroline.a.kilbourne@nasa.gov
James A Chervenak — james.a.chervenak@nasa.gov
Nicholas A Wakeham — nicholas.a.wakeham@nasa.gov
Rachel B Borrelli — rachel.b.borrelli@nasa.gov
Simon R Bandler — simon.r.bandler@nasa.gov
Stephen J Smith — stephen.j.smith@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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