Related Experiment Video
Updated: Dec 21, 2025
08:53
Single Plane Illumination Module and Micro-capillary Approach for a Wide-field Microscope
Published on: August 15, 2014
10.0K
Microlens testing on back-illuminated image sensors for space applications
Applied Optics
|May 14, 2020
Summary
Microlens arrays (MLAs) enhance CMOS image sensors (CIS) for space missions by improving light capture and stability. These UV-curable polymer MLAs boost photosensitivity, making them ideal for Earth observation and space exploration imaging.
Area of Science:
- Optoelectronics
- Materials Science
- Space Technology
Background:
- Optoelectronic properties like photosensitivity and resolution are crucial for image sensors in Earth observation and space exploration.
- Microlens arrays (MLAs) enhance Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor (CMOS) image sensors (CIS) by optimizing photon capture within each pixel.
Purpose of the Study:
- To design, fabricate, and characterize a microlens array (MLA) using a UV-curable hybrid polymer.
- To assess the optical performance and reliability of the MLA when integrated with a back-illuminated CIS for space applications.
Main Methods:
- Replication of MLA on a packaged back-illuminated CIS with a 15.5 µm pixel pitch.
- Optical characterization and reliability testing including temperature variations, humidity, mechanical shock, vibration, and gamma irradiation.
Main Results:
- The fabricated MLA demonstrated high stability across various environmental and radiation stresses.
- Parasitic light sensitivity was improved by a factor of 1.8.
- The MLA is compatible with a wide range of image sensors, including front-illuminated types with varying pixel pitches.
Conclusions:
- UV-curable hybrid polymer MLAs offer a robust and effective solution for enhancing CIS performance in demanding space environments.
- The demonstrated reliability and performance improvements make these MLAs suitable for diverse space industry imaging specifications.
