Superlattice-based Infrared for Guidance and High-temperature Targeting (SIGHT)

Infrared imaging sensors and systems are key capabilities for precision guidance, targeting, and superior situational awareness for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) in the Department of the Air Force (DAF). Recently, there has been a concerted effort to revolutionize precision weapons solutions by combining classical and quantum physics for practical systems with unprecedented functionality for target engagement and execution. Mid-wave infrared (MWIR) sensors are a particularly critical technology capable of providing real-time target detection where precise recognition and identification in a variety of conditions is key. Improvements of DAF electro-optical and infrared (EO/IR) sensor capabilities must continue to support airborne and space-borne mission needs. These needs are increasingly urgent, and conventional efforts to simultaneously achieve key performance metrics like large quantum efficiency, low dark current and high material quality with long Shockley-Read-Hall (SRH) lifetime and suppressed Auger recombination has been a challenge at elevated temperatures. In this effort, SK Infrared (SKI), will use the extensive experience in the research, development and transition of infrared detectors and focal plane arrays (FPAs) to address the Air Force’s need for a HOT MWIR imager. We propose to address the need for a HOT and large dynamic range by integrating a resonant cavity infrared detector (RCID) on a commercial off the shelf (COTS) ROIC and demonstrating a small-format FPA using a band-engineered material system based on InAs/InAsSb. The proposed effort builds on this promising technological advance to deliver a MWIR FPA prototype with built-in RCID pixels to provide a first-hand assessment of this technology. This will lead to a wider deployment of infrared sensors on agile platforms in the DoD and will provide a clear overall advantage in guidance, targeting, surveillance and situational awareness.