Scaling Feedhorn-coupled, Background-Limited Microwave Kinetic Inductance Detectors into the Far Infrared

The Astro2022 Decadal Report emphasizes the importance of basic technology research by declaring that a `foundational activity' is to `expand support for early-stage and basic technology development.' The report specifically mentions `highly multiplexed detectors.' The microwave kinetic inductance detector (MKID), first demonstrated in 2003, is an important low temperature detector for applications in the millimeter (mm), sub-millimeter (sub-mm), and far-infrared (FIR) parts of the electromagnetic spectrum and is highly multiplexable. In previous research, we developed feedhorn-coupled KIDs (FC-KIDs) into a scalable focal plane technology for measurements in the mm/sub-mm/FIR, and this technology has now been used in both balloon-borne and ground-based instruments. Our objective in the proposed research is a 100-fold increase in the sensitivity of FC-KID arrays relevant to mm/sub-mm/FIR measurements from space-based instruments. We propose to 1) demonstrate two unique optical/sensor coupling methods that support the exploration of ultra-low-volume MKIDs with exquisite sensitivity, 2) realize orthomode transducer (OMT) coupled MKIDs at wavelengths below 300 micron, 3) scale silicon-platelet feedhorn arrays to 180 micron, and 4) pioneer Frequency-Programmable Resonator Arrays (FPRAs), a flexible and re-workable method to achieve uniformly spaced, collision-free resonators at the fundamental limit of multiplexing density that is limited only by Lorentzian crosstalk. Our goal is to achieve a Noise Equivalent Power (NEP) of ~10^-20 W/rtHz that would enable spectroscopic measurements in the FIR from a space-based 4K-cooled telescope. Such measurements would allow remarkable insights to galaxy and planet formation. The proposed detector advances are relevant to both FIR and CMB Probe missions as well as balloon-borne instruments.

The Astrophysics Research and Analysis program (APRA) supports suborbital and suborbital-class investigations, development of detectors and supporting technology, laboratory astrophysics, and limited ground-based observing. Basic research proposals in these areas are solicited for investigations that are relevant to NASA's programs in astronomy and astrophysics, including the entire range of photons, gravitational waves, and particle astrophysics. The emphasis of this solicitation is on technologies and investigations that advance NASA astrophysics missions and goals.

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