Far-IR/submm array of multiplexed Single Photon Detectors based on the Quantum Capacitance Detector

We will develop a 500-pixel array of quantum capacitance detectors which have 1) per-pixel noise equivalent power (NEP) below 3e-20 W/sqrt(Hz), 2) high absorption efficiency, and 3) sufficient speed of response to count individual mid-IR through far-IR photons at rates up to 10 kHz. The full array will be read out with a single microwave circuit using a suite of probe tones interacting with resonators. The sensitivity, speed, and MUXing are the key enabling requirements for moderate-resolution (R~500) zodi-limited spectroscopy on future cryogenic far-IR facilities such as the Origins Space Telescope (formerly Far-IR Surveyor) or a far-IR probe-class mission. The photon counting capability offers the potential for enhanced scientific performance for a) high-stability applications such as exoplanet spectroscopy and b) high-resolution direct-detection spectroscopy at the shot-noise limit. Our work builds on the success with few-pixel quantum capacitance demonstrations at 200 microns, but we require a dedicated multi-pixel readout architecture, absorber and backshort geometry adapted to shorter wavelengths (down to 30 microns with a goal of 6 for exoplanet photon counting), and demonstration of high yield (>75%) with an improved tunnel junction design and fabrication approach.

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.

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 4) — 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.