Solar blind UVC detectors for efficient plume detection

With the emergence of next-generation jets and advanced missile systems, reliable threat detection has become increasingly critical. Missiles, as common aerial threats, emit radiation across the IR, VIS, and UV spectra, primarily determined by plume temperature and chemical composition. While missile plumes often peak in the infrared region, traditional IR-based detection systems are prone to false alarms due to significant solar IR emissions. In contrast, missile plumes also emit ultraviolet light, particularly in the UVC range (<280 nm), where solar emissions are negligible. This makes UVC detection an ideal solution for enhancing reliability and accuracy in missile plume detection. Building on the success of Phase I, where Adroit Materials demonstrated the feasibility of AlGaN-based UVC detectors with exceptional solar blindness and sensitivity, Phase II will focus on advancing this technology toward operational readiness. Efforts will include further enhancing key metrics, such as response time, sensitivity, and UV/VIS/IR rejection rates. The ultimate goal of Phase II is to deliver a TRL 6 prototype system capable of robust UVC plume detection, laying the foundation for integration into advanced threat detection platforms. This system also provides a pathway for next-generation spectral and spatial analysis solutions, supporting the evolving needs of defense and intelligence applications.