Dual Wavelength Infrared Detector for VLWIR Applications

High performance very long wavelength infrared (VLWIR) detectors play a critical role in the early detection of long range missiles. However, a single spectral wavelength (color) detector may be inadequate due to target spectral complexity and backgroundinterference. A multi-spectral focal plane array could provide important information that enhances target tracking and discrimination ability of anti-missile systems. The current technologies for detection in this wavelength regime have serious materialperformance issues or require cyrocoolers that are bulky with limited lifetimes. InAs/GaInSb type II superlattices show great promise as an alternative technology for Very Long Wavelength Infrared (VLWIR) detectors. They have higher operating temperaturesand greater detectivity than current technologies. We plan to investigate the development of a dual-color focal plane array (FPA) for detection in the > 15 mm range. The Phase I work will lead to better understanding of the material growth and detectorperformance. This material system has detection capability from 2-30 um. Within the infrared range various products can be developed including thermal and medical imaging, and pollution monitoring.Dual-color detectors offer greater discrimination.