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Completed TRL 3 (started at 2, targeting 3)
We propose to demonstrate a proof-of-concept for a radically innovative and game-changing amplifier technology called the Kinetic Inductance Traveling-Wave Parametric Amplifier (KI-TWPA) applicable in the microwave to THz range (0.001 –1 THz). These “paramps” exhibit ultra-low noise reaching the fundamental standard quantum limit (SQL), along with a very wide bandwidth (an octave or more) and large input dynamic range – all attributes that can be enabling for a wide-range of quantum-enhanced sensing applications, and can drastically increase observation speed and sensitivity of space-based receivers and imagers, such as those for Lynx and OST. Our study has two thrusts: a) demonstrate superior readout of an xray calorimeter array using a microwave (4-8 GHz) paramp; and b) study a proof-of-concept millimeter-wave paramp (65-150 GHz) in an experimental testbed.
The technology is enabling for the high pixel count, photon counting and ultra sensitive focal planes in the X-ray and microwave regime required for future flagship class observatories, OST, Lynx, GEP, PRT
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