Small Business Innovation Research/Small Business Tech Transfer
High Quantum Efficiency 1024x1024 Longwave Infrared SLS FPA and Camera, Phase II
Project Introduction
We propose a high quantum efficiency (QE) 1024x1024 longwave infrared focal plane array (LWIR FPA) and CAMERA with ~ 12 micron cutoff wavelength made from bandgap-engineered Type-II InAs/GaSb strained layer superlattice (SLS) photodiodes. FPA/camera performance goals include QE > 50% and temporal noise equivalent difference in temperature (NEDT) < 30 mK while operating at a temperature > 60K with a fast integration time < 0.5 ms and F/4 optics. In Phase I, we developed and delivered a high-performance 640x512 SLS FPA as proof of concept, clearly demonstrating the viability of bandgap-engineered Group III-V InAs/GaSb/AlSb materials as a real cost-effective alternative to mercury cadmium telluride (MCT) for NASA's requirements for high-QE LWIR FPAs. Phase II will build on Phase I by expanding array format, shrinking pixel pitch, improving QE, and packaging and delivering the FPA in a camera that NASA can field-test to evaluate this novel sensor technology. The 12 micron cutoff, high QE, and relatively high operating temperature of SLS are expected to be of particular benefit to NASA's LANDSAT and HyspIRI projects.
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Anticipated Benefits
1) NASA's LANDSAT Data Continuity Mission - Thermal Infrared Sensor (LDCM-TIRS) 2) NASA's HyspIRI Mission - Multispectral thermal infrared (TIR) imager 3) Space- and ground-based astronomy and astrophysics 4) Chemical/spectral mapping of forests, vegetation, crops, and landmasses 5) Temperature mapping of oceans and landmasses 6) Atmospheric mapping 7) Pollution monitoring 1) Gas imaging(e.g. for the petrochemical industry) 2) Security and surveillance 3) Thermography 4) Medical imaging 5) Missile defense 6) Space-based situational awareness
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Primary U.S. Work Locations and Key Partners
| Organizations Performing Work | Role | Type | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| QmagiQ, LLC | Lead Organization | Industry | Nashua, New Hampshire |
Goddard Space Flight Center
(GSFC)
|
Supporting Organization | NASA Center | Greenbelt, Maryland |
Primary U.S. Work Locations
-
Maryland
-
New Hampshire
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Organizational Responsibility
Responsible Mission Directorate:
- Space Technology Mission Directorate (STMD)
Lead Organization:
- QmagiQ, LLC
Responsible Program:
- Small Business Innovation Research/Small Business Tech Transfer
Project Management
Program Director:
Program Manager:
Principal Investigator:
Project Duration
Start: Jul 2013
End: Jul 2015
Technology Maturity (TRL)
| Start: | 4 |
| Current: | 5 |
| Estimated End: | 5 |
Applied Research
Development
Demo & Test
Technology Areas
Primary:
- TX08 Sensors and Instruments
- TX08.1 Remote Sensing Instruments/Sensors
- TX08.1.1 Detectors and Focal Planes
Target Destination
Earth
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