Two-color LWIR Sensing for Enhanced EKV/GMD Seekers

We set out in phase I to investigate the development a two-color focal plane array (FPA) using an array of micro Fabry-Perot interferometers (MFPIs) for high sensitivity and spectral tuning in two long wave infrared (LWIR) bands aimed at enhancing the lock-on range of exo-atmospheric kill vehicle (EKV) seekers. The results reveal the uniqueness of the MFPI as a sensor as well as a tuner, depending on its interference control. They show that the FPA possesses four innovative features ideal for EKV seekers: (1) it’s dynamically tunable in two bands for an increase in the lock-on range and an enhancement in the decoy counter; (2) it’s superior to state-of-the-art detectors (bolometric or photonic types) for dim missile hardbody detection; (3) it’s operable in cooled and uncooled conditions for compactness; and (4) it’s producible for low-cost production. We propose a phase II program to complete the development of this FPA consisting of 512x512 pixels by performing the following: (1) fabricating the FPA with two-color tuning; (2) incorporating on-chip circuits for readout and tuning control; (3) constructing supporting optics and electronics for tests; and (4) testing its two-color capability. This program will prepare us to commercialize a set of competitive products using the two-color FPA for the defense, medical imaging and thermal imaging markets.