Uncooled Photomechanical Terahertz Imagers

Agiltron and the University of Massachusetts Lowell will develop a transformational terahertz (THz) imager based on Agiltron’s established optical readout photomechanical imaging technology. The photomechanical imager contains a MEMS-based focal plane array that transduces THz radiation into a visible signal for capture by a high-performance CCD imager. By leveraging the advances made in the fields of MEMS processing and silicon-based imagers, the photomechanical THz imager will meet the Air Force performance objective of NEP < 10–12 W/Hz1/2 from 1–10 THz and frame rate > 30 fps, all while featuring uncooled operation and a dramatic reduction in size, weight, and power (SWAP) and cost over commercially available THz imagers. In Phase I, through extensive materials investigation, imager testing, and performance modeling, we will extend the photomechanical imaging platform to cover the THz range and meet the Air Force performance objectives. BENEFIT: The proposed uncooled photomechanical THz imager development program represents a major technology breakthrough, facilitating wide use of these highly capable imagers in military applications. Because THz radiation can penetrate through most materials, applications for THz imagers include detection of concealed weapons, land mines and improvised explosive devices, chemical agents, and void and crack formation on aircraft skins. Also, because THz radiation readily transmits through smoke and fog, THz imagers are also useful for target acquisition and identification, terrain avoidance for aircraft, and brownout circumvention for helicopters and other rotorcraft. Targeted DoD end user agencies include the Air Force, Army, Navy, and Marines.