Gamma Focal Plane Array

Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposes to develop a new gamma focal plane array (gamma-FPA) that is highly sensitive in the mid- and long-wave infrared (MWIR/LWIR) regions, requires no cooling, and has high resolution and improved uniformity. Its operation is based on the exponential sensitivity of the rotational viscosity (gamma) of liquid crystal (LC) to temperature variation (MWIR/LWIR irradiation). The resonance absorption of MWIR/LWIR irradiation by LC molecules, and absorption of a wide range of wavelengths by carbon nanotube pixels raises LC temperatures. The resulting viscosity variation is precisely controlled by capacitance variation across each gamma-FPA pixel. The transient nematic effect and low LC bulk give the gamma-FPA millisecond speed. Because at readout, the LC molecules are rotated through the full available angular range, the gamma-FPA is polarization insensitive. The cost of the gamma-FPA will be kept low because it is based on well-developed LC display technology. In Phase I POC will demonstrate a laboratory prototype exhibiting multicolor detection in the MWIR/LWIR spectrum. In Phase II POC will design and fabricate a working prototype suitable for real environments--missile seekers or space-based satellites. In Phase III POC will improve performance and integrate the gamma-FPA into an MDA seeker.