High Operational Temperature MWIR detectors with optical concentrators, Year 1

The goal of this work is to develop high performance mid-wavelength (MWIR) barrier infrared detectors (BIRDs) operating at temperatures accessible to compact single-stage thermoelectric coolers. High operational temperature can be achieved by integrating detectors with optical concentrators based on microlenses or novel flat optical elements. Objectives: Design and theoretically evaluate performance of optical concentrator based on microlenses and on flat optical elements. Develop MWIR BIRD monolithically integrated with optical concentrator. Demonstrate operation of integrated detectors at temperatures accessible with a single stage thermoelectric cooler (T > 210K).

Potential applications: High QE, low dark current mid-wavelength infrared detectors operating at temperatures accessible to compact single-stage thermoelectric coolers (T>210K) will benefit infrared spectrometers such CIRIS for outer planet missions: Enceladus Multiple Flyby Mission; Trojan Asteroid Mission; Titan Saturn System Orbiter; Io Observer Mission. Follow-On options: PICASSO; Army; MDA; NRO DII.

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