STAR CRYOELECTRONICS, LLC — Department of Energy SBIR Phase I: 28

Description

A recent report of the 25-member Particle Physics Project Prioritization Panel (P5) recommends funding cosmic microwave background (CMB) experiments under all budget scenarios, specifically, the next-generation ground-based CMB experimental program whose aim is to provide definitive measurements of the early universe. For this program, large focal plane arrays with ~100,000 detectors and associated readout amplifiers and interconnecting components will be required, which exceeds the capacity of laboratory and university facilities. General statement of how this problem is being addressed We describe a research plan to develop low-noise cryogenic amplifiers based on series SQUID arrays for frequency domain multiplexed readout of large numbers of CMB detectors, and robust superconducting flex circuits that will simplify cryogenic systems integration for large CMB instruments, both of which will be scalable to large-scale production processes. Work to be completed in Phase I During Phase I, we will design and fabricate series SQUID array amplifiers and uperconducting flex circuits that are optimized for CMB detector readouts, and demonstrate the feasibility of these processes for transitioning to high volume manufacturing (HVM) readiness in Phase II. By the conclusion of Phase II, we expect to have all infrastructure, processes, and controls in place for high volume manufacturing of these components in order to meet CMB instrument needs. Commercial applications and other benefits The technologies to be developed through Phase I and Phase II will have direct applicability to other products and market applications STAR Cryoelectronics currently serves, including instrumentation for biomedical imaging, non-destructive testing of materials, and geophysical exploration. In particular, we anticipate that the proposed low-noise cryogenic amplifiers and superconducting flex circuits will enable the company to improve two types of X-ray spectrometers for materials analysis and basic research that the company currently offers. These instruments are in demand by semiconductor manufacturers and researchers at synchrotron facilities. Key Words: SQUID, series SQUID array, cryogenic amplifier, uperconducting flex circuit