Microwave Kinetic Inductance Current Amplifiers

Completed TRL 2 (started at 2, targeting 2)

Description

Instrument concepts for future astrophysics mission require multiplexed readout amplifiers with lower readout noise, better input coupling, and smaller elements for more compact arrays. Recent fabrication developments with high kinetic inductance materials offer a new way to potentially realize such amplifiers.

Benefits

Multiplexed readout amplifiers for arrays of superconducting transition edge bolometers or microcalorimeters, or arrays of magnetic calorimeters, in future astrophysics missions.

Details

Technology area	Sensors and Instruments > Remote Sensing Instruments and Sensors > Detectors and Focal Planes
Program	Center Independent Research & Development: GSFC IRAD (GSFC IRAD)
Lead organization	Goddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt, MD
Start date	2018-10-01
End date	2019-09-30

Project contacts

Listed on TechPort itself — the most direct way to ask about this specific project.

Emily L Wilson — emily.l.wilson@nasa.gov
Keith M Jahoda — keith.m.jahoda@nasa.gov
Terence A Doiron — terence.a.doiron@nasa.gov
Thomas R Stevenson — thomas.r.stevenson@nasa.gov
Emily M Barrentine — emily.m.barrentine@nasa.gov
Larry A Hess — larry.a.hess@nasa.gov

How to get involved

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 2) — 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.