Optical Gain Modulators and Switches Using Toggling (BMDO02-011B)

We will develop and demonstrate Geiger mode APDs using novel materials set, device structure, and circuit for short wavelength (500 - 600 nm) ladar pixels and pixel arrays. Our approach promises extremely low dark count rates at room temperature (1 cps).This quietness allows trade-offs among larger detector area, less cooling (or no cooling), reduced after-pulsing, reduced optical cross talk, higher detection efficiency, higher duty cycle, higher operating speed, better production yield, and/or largerarrays. The results will constitute a solid foundation for ultimate sensitivity ladar, detecting nearly all return photons as well as multiple returns per pulse. LightSpin will build, characterize, and deliver a 4 x 4 element module and 8 x 8 elementarray, outperforming existing Geiger modules and arrays.