NIST researchers have developed a high-performance camera using superconducting nanowire sensors that can detect single photons. The camera, designed for future space-based telescopes, could help search for signs of life on other planets and detect dark matter.
Key features of the camera:
– 32×32 sensor array
– Detects single photons with high speed, efficiency, and color sensitivity
– Low dark count rates (fewer false signals)
– Small physical size (1.6mm square) with 1,024 sensors
The camera’s main challenge was managing data from so many sensors without overheating. NIST researchers extended a previous readout architecture to meet NASA’s requirements for the Origins Space Telescope project.
The camera has 99.5% sensor success rate but needs higher efficiency at target wavelengths. Future goals include larger cameras with a million sensors and applications in dark matter detection.
The camera was fabricated at NIST’s Microfabrication Facility using tungsten-silicon nanowires (3.5mm long, 180nm wide, 3nm thick) on silicon wafers. Performance was measured by JPL at Caltech.
Keywords: Photons, Superconducting, Nanowires, Detectors, Sensitivity
