Large-aperture germanium detector package for picosecond photon counting in the 0.5-1.6-microm range
Optics Letters
|October 31, 2009
Summary
A new germanium avalanche photodiode detector offers subcentimeter precision for satellite laser ranging. This compact, cryogenically cooled detector achieves high sensitivity and timing resolution for precise distance measurements.
Area of Science:
- Optoelectronics
- Photonics
- Geophysics
Background:
- Germanium avalanche photodiodes (Ge APDs) are crucial for photon detection.
- Geiger mode operation offers high sensitivity but requires careful circuit design.
- Cryogenic cooling is often necessary to reduce dark noise and improve performance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To design and construct a novel detector package for satellite laser ranging.
- To optimize a germanium avalanche photodiode (Ge APD) for Geiger mode operation at cryogenic temperatures.
- To achieve subcentimeter ranging precision using the developed detector.
Main Methods:
- Developed an active quenching circuit and optimized diode structure for Ge APDs.
- Implemented cryogenic cooling to 77 K for enhanced performance.
- Integrated the detector into a compact package for satellite laser ranging applications.
- Tested the detector at 0.532- and 1.543-micrometer wavelengths.
Main Results:
- Achieved a 0.1-mm active area diameter with acceptable dark-count rate and timing resolution.
- Demonstrated photon-counting sensitivity at 1.54 micrometers.
- Attained subcentimeter ranging precision in satellite laser ranging experiments.
Conclusions:
- The new detector package enables high-precision satellite laser ranging.
- The optimized Ge APD design and cryogenic cooling are key to achieving superior performance.
- This technology has significant implications for geodetic measurements and space applications.
