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Traveling-wave parametric amplifiers based on superconducting kinetic inductance are a new technology which allows for wide-band operation + quantum limited noise. The key to making this type of device work is phase matching pump, signal and idler tones along the length of the device. The challenge of extending the technology to higher frequencies is to compensate for dispersion along the structure. Use superconducting paramps to increase the DSN millimeter wave (Ka-band) receiver signal-to-noise, yielding a factor of two improvement in DSN data rates.
The paramp to be developed under this CIF could be a game changer in future applications such as Ka-band deep space communications.
This is a mature technology (TRL 7+) — the realistic path in is usually NASA's Technology Transfer Program: licensing an existing NASA patent, or a Space Act Agreement to use NASA facilities/expertise directly. NASA also runs a startup licensing program with no upfront fee for companies formed to commercialize a specific NASA technology.
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