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A cryogenic thermal source for detector array characterization
David T Chuss1, Karwan Rostem2, Edward J Wollack2
1Department of Physics, Villanova University, 800 E. Lancaster Ave., Villanova, Pennsylvania 19085, USA.
The Review of Scientific Instruments
|November 3, 2017
Summary
A new quasioptical thermal source was developed for characterizing detector arrays. This highly absorptive source operates effectively at cryogenic temperatures, demonstrating minimal reflectance across a wide frequency band.
Area of Science:
- Physics
- Engineering
- Materials Science
Background:
- Accurate characterization of detector arrays requires stable and well-defined thermal sources.
- Existing thermal sources may not meet the stringent requirements for cryogenic and broad spectral band applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To design, fabricate, and validate a novel cryogenically compatible quasioptical thermal source.
- To enable precise characterization of detector arrays in a broad frequency range.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a graphite-loaded epoxy mixture molded into a tiled pyramidal structure.
- Employed wire electron discharge machining for precise mold fabrication.
- Integrated a copper backplate for thermalization and temperature monitoring.
Main Results:
- Achieved a reflectance of less than 0.001 over a spectral band from 75 to 330 GHz.
- Demonstrated successful thermalization and temperature measurement capabilities.
- Validated the source's suitability for cryogenic applications.
Conclusions:
- The developed quasioptical thermal source is highly effective for detector array characterization.
- Its low reflectance and cryogenic compatibility make it a valuable tool for advanced scientific instrumentation.
