Laboratory and field imaging test results on single-color and dual-band QWIP focal plane arrays

We report on recent laboratory and field measurements on quantum well infra red photodetector (QWIP) focal plane arrays (FPAs). The results of laborato ry measurements of imaging performance such as noise-equivalent temperature difference (NE DeltaT), minimum resolvable temperature, conversion efficie ncy, uniformity of response and dark current and their dependence on operat ing temperature are presented on large format (640 x 480 pixels) single-col or long-wavelength infrared (LWIR) and dual-band (256 x 256 pixels) mid-wav elength infrared (MWIR)/LWIR arrays. We found that under optimum operating conditions (65 K and 1 V bias), the NE DeltaT of the LWIR FPA was approxima tely 30 mK and was limited by the optics and noise from the closed-cycle co oler. We will show field imagery of military targets taken with this FPA. I n addition. field imagery taken with the LWIR QWIP camera of a large-transi ent event will be compared with that taken with an InSb MWIR camera. We wil l, also show imagery of a recent total eclipse of the moon. We will also pr esent laboratory results on a simultaneously integrating, pixel-registered dual-band FPA showing excellent operability and response uniformity with NE DeltaT of approximately 30 mK in both bands (T = 60 K). The dualband FPA. was also taken to the field and we will present imagery of various targets acquired with this FPA. Published by Elsevier Science B.V.