Multi-Spectral Infrared Focal Plane Arrays

A great variety of space, airborne and ground-based applications require two or more color infrared focal plane arrays to improve target identification, including camouflaged targets, chemical signature recognition and clutter rejection. We propose to establish a domestic foundry that provides high quality, mature technology based on MBE-grown HgCdTe for infrared focal plane arrays sensitive to two or more colors. MWIR/LWIR two-color arrays will be modeled, and test structures grown and characterized during Phase I. Test arrays will be fabricated and assessed. Artificial intelligence-guided manufacturing approaches will be developed based on data acquired over past decades to generate reproducible processes and trusted practices. The technology proposed in this program is expected to increase the ability of space surveillance systems and could easily be incorporated into seekers used for imaging and non-imaging missile guidance, airborne threat warning sensors for fighter and transport aircraft using imaging with autonomous processors, infrared search and track systems for non-imaging shipboard and tactical aircraft applications, or systems used for navigation, target acquisition, fire control, and reconnaissance.