High Speed, Radiation Hardened Focal Plane Array (FPA) for Hybrid Coherent and Direct Detect Active Imaging Receivers

Currently, Readout Integrated Circuits (ROIC) are not available that can support hybrid active imaging receivers that have dual mode direct detection and coherent detection capability. In addition, radiation hardness / survivability of electronic components is of paramount importance for use in the Ballistic Missile Defense System (BMDS) programs. Components must function reliably when exposed to radiation from space and nuclear events. The goal of this effort is an ROIC that addresses both requirements at the Missile Defense Agency (MDA). The ROIC will be designed with increased levels of resistance to damage induced by nuclear environment radiation with minimal impact to performance. This will be accomplished by using Radiation-Hardened-By-Process (RHBP) and Radiation-Hardened-By-Design (RHBD) techniques. This effort will also develop the novel ROIC circuitry specifically aimed at hybrid-mode active imaging detection. This will be accomplished through the development of a Software Defined ROIC (SDR) that can be digitally programmed in support of multiple modes of operation. In Phase I, performance requirements for the ROIC will be defined. The ROIC unit cell circuit performance will be simulated, and the floor plan of the ROIC will be established.