Advanced broadband imager for EUV and FUV studies with exquisite precision

Abstract

Next generation, space-based, Sun-Earth System remote sensing missions place severe challenges on focal plane technologies to achieve their science goals. Among these are high sensitivity over a broad spectral range, small pixel size, fast readout, radiation tolerance, low power consumption, photometric accuracy & stability, and scalable mosaic technology for constructing large focal plane mosaics. Our Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, University of Alabama in Huntsville collaboration has begun the development of an Advanced Broadband Imager (ABI) to address these challenges for future Sun Solar System Connection science missions. We describe here the development of the delta-doped, high-purity, p-channel charge coupled devices, which form the heart of the ABI imager, and our plans for future development. The current technical readiness levels of ABI component technologies are TRL 2 to TRL 4. Our proposed development program envisions achieving TRL 5 within 3 years with flight validation in the context of an Earth Sun System Science mission occurring within 6 years via the Quiet-Sun Transition Region Explorer EUV Telescope (Q-STREET) rocket-borne observatory.