Single-photon counting with SiSeRO to search for Earth-like planets.

This proposal is dedicated to elevating the technical readiness of the innovative fully-depleted thick p-channel CCD featuring Single Electron Sensitive ReadOut (SiSeRO). Specifically designed as a single photon counter for the Habitable Worlds Observatory (HWO), the p-channel SiSeRO has exhibited exceptional electronic performance in controlled laboratory settings, demonstrating its capability for single electron sensitivity owing to minimal readout noise. Our proposal outlines a comprehensive plan to achieve the following objectives: i) validate the performance of the novel sensor as a photon counter, ii) assess the radiation hardness of the device, and iii) engineer backend electronics tailored to optimize the functionality of this groundbreaking sensor technology.

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.

None of these are guaranteed paths for this specific project — TechPort itself doesn't have an "apply" button. Reaching out to the contact(s) above with a specific question is usually the fastest way to find out what's actually open.