Large Format SQUID Multiplexed Arrays for Polar Astrophysics

Cornell University, Ithaca NY

Investigators

Abstract

This Polar Instrumentation and Technology Development project will lead to the development of a 16 x 16 element array of bolometers with Superconducting Quantum Interference Device (SQUID) readout. The array will be used as an imaging device in the focal plane of a submillimeter wavelength telescope at South Pole, the Antarctic Submillimeter Telescope and Remote Observatory (AST/RO). The new detector on AST/RO will be able to make observations much faster at wavelengths of a few hundred micrometers than any previous telescope arrangement and will permit entirely new astronomy to be done. The new detector array will also be used on other submillimeter telescopes at other sites, so it will find broad application.