Quantum-limited Amplifiers for Large Array Readout of Superconducting Detectors

We propose to develop broadband, quantum-limited amplifiers based on parametric amplification to enhance the readout of highly multiplexed arrays of Transition Edge Sensor (TES) detectors and Microwave Kinetic Inductance Detectors (MKIDs). A substantial fraction of NASA's portfolio consists of challenging photon-detection applications across the electromagnetic spectrum, for which arrays of cryogenic sensors of either TES or MKIDs are a key enabling technology. However for many important applications, the sensor array is limited by the noise temperature of the follow-on amplifier. In the proposed research effort, we aim to reduce the noise of the follow-on amplifier by a factor of 10-20 relative to the current state-of-the-art, while maintaining the large bandwidth needed for the readout of highly multiplexed arrays. By doing so, we will enhance the capability and increase the scalability of existing low temperature detector technologies in a cost-effective way. Specifically, we will realize novel implementations of kinetic inductance traveling-wave (KIT) parametric amplifiers that explore artificial transmissions, discrete resonator phase matching, microstrip geometries, and 3-wave mixing. In addition, we will develop Josephson junction traveling-wave parametric amplifiers (JTWPAs). For most of these ideas, we have already published encouraging proof-of-principle demonstrations. Our overarching goal is to create an amplifier with noise near the standard quantum limit, greater than 1 GHz bandwidth, greater than 15dB gain, and high saturation power well-suited to the needs of large array detector readout. We will than implement our best performing amplifier in detector readout demonstrations of both TES and MKID arrays with 100s to 1000s of sensors. We focus our efforts on applications in the mm/submm/FIR part of the spectrum. Nevertheless, the proposed quantum-limited amplifiers have application from mm-waves to x-rays. The proposed research effort will enable a broad range of NASA flagship mission concepts including OST, LUVOIR, and Lynx and is also directly applicable to recent probe-class studies the Probe of Inflation and Cosmic Origins (PICO) and the Galaxy Evolution Probe (GEP).

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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