Modified High Gain APDs for Multi-beam Ladar Instrumentation

In this effort, Radiation Monitoring Devices, Inc. (RMD) addresses NASA's request for sensitive, high quantum efficiency (QE) optical detectors for space- and ground-based light detection and ranging (Lidar) instruments. We propose to address this need by utilizing our latest designs in solid state photodetectors, and providing optimal receiver solutions needed for NASA's ongoing and future science missions. The solid state photodetectors that will be evaluated for this program will include RMD's large-area, high-gain proportional mode avalanche photodiodes (APD). The focus will be on modification of RMD's existing structure to improve responsivity and bandwidth in the blue and ultra-violet (UV) region of the spectrum. Preliminary studies have shown that UV responsivity and bandwidth of our large area detectors can be increased through the application of a modified surface layer using a well-established processing method. The proposed receiver technology readiness level (TRL) is estimated at 2. The Phase I effort will utilize experimental and theoretical studies to confirm the feasibility of the defined approach, resulting in a prototype design with a TRL of 3-4. In Phase II, the prototype receiver will be fabricated and evaluated. A TRL of 5-6 will be reached by the end of this SBIR program.

The target application for our receiver will be laser detection and ranging. This includes Earth-based satellites, which use laser ranging to monitor atmospheric conditions and topographical features, or planetary mission that require laser altimeters for landing or topographical and atmospheric mapping. Select mission include: Aerosol-Cloud-Ecosystem (ACE), Doppler Wind Lidar for Surface Topology (LIST) and Geostationary Coastal Air Pollution Events (GEO-CAPE). NASA's existing systems, such as the Airborne cloud physics Lidar (CPL) and instruments for Wind and Raman Lidar, will also employ relevant receiver technology.

In addition to non-NASA laser ranging applications, the proposed detector would be useful for commercial technology related to optical communication, fluorescence lifetime imaging and medical imaging. The technology could be used as a low cost and compact receiver for high speed vehicle or object tracking. In addition, it would offer improved readout of scintillators for radiation detection and monitoring in health care and homeland security applications.

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 5) — 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.

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