CCDs for the Optical - Ultraviolet Spectral Region

Mark Clampin

Space Telescope Science Institute, 3700 San Martin Drive, Baltimore, MD 21218

(3) Technical challenges for space applications - radiation damage; radiation environments; charge transfer efficiency, hot pixels; mitigation: mini-channel, p type CCDs, SiC, small format reads; flight packaging; procurement: transition of commercial market to CMOS; science CCD vendors (follow-up to FOSI report)

HEB HETERODYNE SENSORS FOR SUBMILLIMETER/FAR-IR ASTRONOMY:

STATE-OF-THE-ART AND FUTURE DIRECTIONS

William R. McGrath*

Spectroscopic observations at sub-millimeter/far-IR wavelengths are critical to the understanding of star formation, and the chemistry, energy balance, and dynamics of the interstellar medium. These observations are also required for the study of "dusty" galaxies which emit mainly in this wavelength range; and for the study of highly red-shifted objects. These science objectives are clearly spelled out in NASA’s Strategic Plan and more specifically in the Code S Roadmap for the Structure and Evolution of the Universe.

Heterodyne sensors based on ultra-fast hot-electron bolometer (HEB) mixers have recently emerged as the most promising detector for science observations at far-IR wavelengths corresponding to frequencies above about 1 THz. Unlike present superconductive SIS mixers, HEB mixers have no frequency limitation set by the energy gap of the superconductor. Thus operation from below 1 THz to over 10 THz is possible. In addition, the noise temperature and local oscillator power requirements are essentially independent of frequency. The unique properties of HEB mixers allow for the development of unique and powerful new observational instruments for radio astronomy missions. The current status and future directions for the development of HEB sensors will be discussed.