X-ray TKID Array Development for Astrophysics

Low temperature detectors promise dramatic advances in energy resolution and pixel count over conventional X-ray detectors for future NASA X-ray missions. In this proposed research, we seek to develop and optimize a new kind of superconducting X-ray detector, known as a Thermal Kinetic Inductance Detector (TKID). These detectors could eventually have the energy resolution of the more mature Transition Edge Sensors (TESs), but with the ability to easily multiplex to much larger pixel counts. We will work to improve the TKID energy resolution to below 5 eV at 6 keV, develop mushroom absorbers to achieve high fill factor, and integrate these detectors into a 1 kpix array. We will also develop new readout firmware for our existing UVOIR MKID readouts to enable reading out these 1 kpix X-ray TKID arrays.

The Astrophysics Research and Analysis program (APRA) supports suborbital and suborbital-class investigations, development of detectors and supporting technology, laboratory astrophysics, and limited ground based observing. Basic research proposals in these areas are solicited for investigations that are relevant to NASA's programs in astronomy and astrophysics, including the entire range of photons, gravitational waves, and particle astrophysics. The emphasis of this solicitation is on technologies and investigations that advance NASA astrophysics missions and goals.

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