THxRG Family of High Performance Image Sensors for Astronomy

Advances continue to be made to Teledyne's HxRG family of imaging sensors: H1RG (1024x1024 pixels), H2RG (2048x2048), and H4RG (4096x4096). These are hybrid CMOS sensors that independently optimize the performance of detector materials and CMOS readout circuits. The H2RG is the foremost infrared sensor in astronomy; being used by most large ground-based telescopes, the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), and the Joint Dark Energy Mission (JDEM). The spectral response of the HgCdTe infrared detector is tunable; cutoff wavelengths of 1.7, 2.5 and 5.3 mu m are routinely produced and are available as standard product. Recognized for high quantum efficiency in the visible through infrared, the H2RG has been improved in several ways: lower readout noise, lower dark current, reduced interpixel capacitance, reduced persistence, and improved pixel operability. The next generation array is in development: the 4096x4096 pixel, 15 mu m pitch H4RG-15. The H4RG-15 and its 10 mu m pixel pitch version, the H4RG-10, retain the H2RG features while adding capabilities to improve performance and increase manufacturability. Packaging also continues to advance; a new silicon carbide (SiC) package has been demonstrated for the H2RG, and SiC packages are being developed for the H4RG-10 and H4RG-15. The FIxRG sensors directly interface to the SIDECAR ASIC, TRL-9 component that provides focal plane electronics on a single chip.