First results of a cryogenic optical photon-counting imaging spectrometer using a DROID array

¹ Advanced Studies and Technology Preparation Division, Directorate of Science and Robotic Exploration of the European Space Agency, PO Box 299, 2200 AG Noordwijk, The Netherlands e-mail: rhijmeri@rssd.esa.int
² Cambridge MicroFab Ltd., Broadway, Bourn, Cambridgeshire CB3 7TA, UK
³ Department of Astrophysics, Radboud University Nijmegen, PO Box 9010, 6500 GL Nijmegen, The Netherlands

Received: 20 August 2009
Accepted: 23 October 2009

Abstract

Context. We present the first system test in which we demonstrate the concept of using an array of Distributed Read Out Imaging Devices (DROIDs) for optical photon detection.

Aims. After the successful S-Cam 3 detector, the next step in the development of a cryogenic optical photon counting imaging spectrometer under the S-Cam project is to increase the field of view using DROIDs. With this modification the field of view of the camera has been increased by a factor of five in a given area while keeping the number of readout channels the same.

Methods. The test has been performed using the flexible S-Cam 3 system and exchanging the 10 12 Superconducting Tunnel Junction array for a 3 20 DROID array. The extra data reduction needed with DROIDs is performed offline.

Results. We show that, although the responsivity (number of tunnelled quasiparticles per unit of absorbed photon energy, e^-/eV) of the current array is too low for direct astronomical applications, the imaging quality is already good enough for pattern detection and will improve further with increasing responsivity.

Conclusions. The obtained knowledge can be used to optimise the system for the use of DROIDs.