← Back to NASA Technology Projects
Kinetic Inductance Detectors for Far-Infrared Spectroscopy
Completed
TRL 3 (started at 2, targeting 3)
Description
I propose to do research to develop kinetic inductance detectors (KIDs) as a tool for far-infrared spectroscopy. Incorporating KIDs as the key detector technology of a sub-orbital or satellite mission to observe the sky at far-infrared wavelengths will allow for highly sensitive extragalactic spectroscopy, leading to new insights in galaxy formation and evolution. Specifically, I propose to develop KID technology to allow for improved sensitivity and larger detector arrays for long-slit, direct-detection spectroscopy.
Benefits
Incorporating KIDs as the key detector technology of a sub-orbital or satellite mission to observe the sky at far-infrared wavelengths will allow for highly sensitive extragalactic spectroscopy, leading to new insights in galaxy formation and evolution.
Details
| Technology area | Sensors and Instruments > Remote Sensing Instruments and Sensors > Detectors and Focal Planes |
| Program | Space Technology Research Grants (STRG) |
| Lead organization | University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA |
| Start date | 2013-08-01 |
| End date | 2017-10-31 |
Project contacts
Listed on TechPort itself — the most direct way to ask about this specific project.
How to get involved
This is early/mid-stage (TRL 3) — 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.
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.