Future infrared detector needs for space astronomy

Craig R. McCreight; Barbara A. Wilson

doi:10.1117/12.148066

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15 July 1993 Future infrared detector needs for space astronomy

Craig R. McCreight, Barbara A. Wilson

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Proceedings Volume 1874, Infrared and Millimeter-Wave Engineering; (1993) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.148066
Event: OE/LASE'93: Optics, Electro-Optics, and Laser Applications in Scienceand Engineering, 1993, Los Angeles, CA, United States

Abstract

The planned set of future NASA space astrophysics missions has been continually undergoing evaluation and analysis, to identify major technology needs and to suggest development programs capable of providing this necessary technology. At a recent workshop, a panel of users and technologists worked to assess the state-of-the-art of relevant approaches in the area of direct infrared (IR) detectors. The set of candidate mission concepts was grouped into the categories of low-background and moderate-background systems; development strategies were outlined for each. For low-background systems, detectors with the ultimate in sensitivity are required, and minimum read noise and dark current are critically important. For moderate- background systems, characteristics such as higher detector operating temperature, large charge storage capacity, and large (or very large) formats are important. Novel photon counting schemes could greatly enhance the capability of future systems. Since readouts often determine overall performance of IR focal plane systems, continued development was needed. Future development programs need to be well coupled to the expertise within the astronomical community.

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Craig R. McCreight and Barbara A. Wilson "Future infrared detector needs for space astronomy", Proc. SPIE 1874, Infrared and Millimeter-Wave Engineering, (15 July 1993); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.148066

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