Far-IR Detector Solutions for Low Noise, Large Format, Direct Absorption Kinetic Inductance Detector Arrays

With the recommendations of the Astro2020 Decadal Survey and the prospect of a NASA-led orbital probe-class mission in the far-infrared, NASA has explicitly defined a large number of far-infrared technological gap priorities. We propose to address several of the most pressing gap technologies, including two tier-1 priorities, through the advancement of a new direct-absorption far-infrared detector and readout solution based on microwave kinetic inductance detectors (KIDs or MKIDs). Basic functionality of these new detector designs and concepts, as well as readout based on radio frequency system on a chip (RFSoC) technology, has been demonstrated in the lab with prototype devices. These devices have broad applicability within the entire far-infrared spectrum, are capable of broadband response or be used as the sensing element of a spectrometer, require no additional focusing optics at the focal plane, are inherently multiplexable with fully integrated on-chip multiplexing circuits, and large scale fabrication has been demonstrated on 150 mm diameter substrates. Together, these attributes result in a maximally compact and lightweight solution for the large-format far-IR detector arrays of the future. As part of this work, we will demonstrate large-format arrays of ultralow-noise detectors over a wide range of far-infrared wavelengths. Pushing to lower detector noise levels is of particular focus in this work, as potential orbital applications will have significantly lower background levels than the sub-orbital experiments of the past. This detector technology is highly scalable, enabling device noise and sensitivity to be tuned to experimental needs while maintaining a strong response over a wide dynamic range of signal powers. Ultralow-noise devices will be achieved via new detector designs that minimize detector volume, as well as incorporate the latest material research into highly sensitive low-Tc detector materials. Our goal is to demonstrate large-format detector arrays with a goal noise equivalent power (NEP) of 1e-19 W/rtHz, and a reach goal of 3e-20 W/rtHz, consistent with the expected needs of a future cold-primary far-infrared space telescope. We emphasize that this detector architecture is entirely distinct from any NIST-based feedhorn-coupled MKID proposals. In addition to detectors, we will advance designs and techniques for a low-noise, highly-multiplexed readout solution that will be necessary for future missions. Cryogenically, we will demonstrate advanced post-fabrication resonator editing to improve yield and reduce crosstalk. This will maximize the number of channels read out by each microwave readout circuit and, together with a demonstration of expanded network bandwidth, will allow for the read out of up to 2,000 detectors per network. For room-temperature readout components, we will further develop and advance an integrated RFSoC and intermediate frequency (IF) electronics system that will minimize both volume and power requirements for the readout of a given number of detectors. The proposed work herein is a direct response to NASA's top tier technology gaps in the far-infrared -- we propose to advance the TRL of new and recently demonstrated broadband far-IR detector arrays and multiplexed readout from TRL~3 to TRL~4 and put them on a path to be considered in the development of future NASA missions.

The Strategic Astrophysics Technology program (SAT) supports focused development efforts for key technologies to the point at which they are ready to feed into major missions in the three science themes of the Astrophysics Division: Exoplanet Exploration, Cosmic Origins, and the Physics of the Cosmos. This program is specifically designed to address middle technology readiness level (TRL) "gaps" between levels 3 and 6: the maturation of technologies that have been established as feasible, but which are not yet sufficiently mature to incorporate into flight missions without introducing an unacceptable level of risk.

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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