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Superconducting Vias for High Performance Microwave Applications

Completed TRL 2 (started at 1, targeting 4)

Description

We will develop superconducting vias for use as bridge crossovers with a novel planar sacrificial MEMS (Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems) process.  The resulting circuit structures will be impedance matched and applicable for use below the superconducting gap frequency commonly in use in planar transmission line circuits.

An ultra-broadband air-gap low-parasitic superconducting crossover circuit be optimized, prototyped, and cryogenically  evaluated. We will also explore a innovative via-less design concept based on a 4-port symmetric planar junction.

Benefits

Instrument concepts under exploration for the Inflation Probe, SPICA, and SPECs would benefit from the proposed effort. More generally, end use of this technology has greater applicability and potential to significantly advance  reliable routing and signal control in high frequency planar circuitry.

Details

Technology areaSensors and Instruments > Remote Sensing Instruments and Sensors > Detectors and Focal Planes
ProgramCenter Independent Research & Development: GSFC IRAD (GSFC IRAD)
Lead organizationGoddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt, MD
Start date2014-10-01
End date2015-09-01

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How to get involved

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 2) — 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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