Quantum Disc-based Focal Plane Arrays for Low-cost High-performance Uncooled LWIR Imaging

The overall objective of this program is to develop novel low-cost uncooled long-wavelength (LWIR) photodetectors based quantum disk for fabrication of low-cost LWIR focal plane arrays (FPAs). This proposal does not seek to deliver a complete camera system, but rather addresses the fundamental issue of designing and fabricating a low-cost uncooled focal plane array core for LWIR imaging systems. This research is classified as fundamental research, and will be performed by Northwestern University faculty, staff, and students on-campus in Evanston, IL. The FPA cores developed under this program will be delivered to DARPA or their designated partner for integration into their system(s). Specifically, we are proposing to address providing sensor cores for Technical Area 3: Exploratory LWIR Technologies.