Fast, Large-Area, Wide-Bandgap UV Photodetector for Cherenkov Light Detection

摘要: Due to limited resources available for power and space payloads, miniaturizing integrating instrumentation is a high priority addressing the challenges of manned unmanned deep missions Earth orbit (HEO), near objects (NEOs), Lunar Martian orbits surfaces, outer planetary systems, as well improvements high-altitude aircraft safety. New, robust, compact detectors allow future packages more options in satisfying specific mission goals. A solid-state ultraviolet (UV) detector was developed with theoretical fast response time large detection area intended application Cherenkov detectors. The based on wide-bandgap semiconductor zinc oxide (ZnO), which bridge circuit can detect small, pulses UV light like those required goal replace role photomultiplier tubes these devices, saving size, weight, power. For improving geometry, spherical measure atomic number energy (HZE) ions from any direction has been patented part larger radiation system. will require development photodetectors enough (2 ns or better) shockwave emitted pass through quartz, sapphire, acrylic ball. must be small fit system structure, but have an active capture sphere. fabricated bulk single-crystal undoped ZnO. Inter - digitated finger electrodes contact pads are patterned via photolithography, formed by sputtered metal silver, platinum, other high-conductivity metal.