2009/04/13 by Paul A. Scowen, Shouleh Nikzad, Scowen, Paul A. +23
Engineering · Physics and Astronomy · #Astronomy and Astrophysical Research #CCD and CMOS Imaging Sensors #FOS: Physical sciences #Instrumentation and Methods for Astrophysics (astro-ph.IM) #Spacecraft Design and Technology
paper · pdf · doi:10.48550/arxiv.0904.1991
openalex publication_date 2009/04/13 · openalex created_date 2025/10/10 · openalex updated_date 2026/07/28
We outline the challenges associated with the development and construction of large focal plane arrays for use both on the ground and in space. Using lessons learned from existing JPL-led and ASU/JPL partnership efforts to develop technology for, and design such arrays and imagers for large focal planes, we enumerate here the remaining problems that need to be solved to make such a venture viable. Technologies we consider vital for further development include: (1) architectures, processes, circuits, and readout solutions for production and integration of four-side buttable, low-cost, high-fidelity, high-performance, and high-reliability CCD and CMOS imagers; (2) modular, four-side buttable packaging of CCD/CMOS imagers; (3) techniques and hardware to test and characterize the large number of chips required to produce the hundreds of flight-grade detectors needed for large focal-plane missions being conceived at this time; (4) ground based testbed needs, such as a large format camera mounted on a ground-based telescope, to field test the detectors and the focal plane technology solutions; and (5) validation of critical sub-components of the design on a balloon mission to ensure their flight-readiness. This paper outlines the steps required to provide a mature solution to the astronomical community with a minimal investment, building on years of planning and investments already completed at JPL.