High-Efficiency Feedhorn-Coupled Detector Arrays to Enable Next-Generation Space-Based CMB Polarization Missions

Completed TRL 4 (started at 3, targeting 4)

Description

On-chip broadband calibrator loads will be designed, incorporated into test pixels, and fabricated and will be capable of loading the detector with known noise power to verify efficiency, as well as test the symmetry and isolation of the circuit on an element-by-element basis.

Benefits

Future cosmic microwave background (CMB) polarization missions will require large arrays of detectors with uniformly high-efficiency and design parameters. The GSFC CMBpol detectors are designed specifically for the space environment with electromagnetic shielding to prevent dielectric charging and mitigate cosmic ray events

Details

Technology area	Sensors and Instruments > Remote Sensing Instruments and Sensors > Detectors and Focal Planes
Program	Center Innovation Fund: GSFC CIF (GSFC CIF)
Lead organization	Goddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt, MD
Start date	2020-10-01
End date	2021-09-30

Project contacts

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

Thomas M Essinger-hileman — thomas.m.essinger-hileman@nasa.gov

How to get involved

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.

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