Development of High Temperature Superconducting Single Photon Detectors for Deep-space Communication
| Reference number | |
| Coordinator | KUNGLIGA TEKNISKA HÖGSKOLAN - Skolan för informations- och kommunikationsteknik |
| Funding from Vinnova | SEK 50 000 |
| Project duration | June 2015 - March 2016 |
| Status | Completed |
Purpose and goal
In this project we worked on development of a superconducting circuit for deep-space optical communication by a comprehensive design and fabrication of high temperature superconducting nanowire singlephoton detectors. A detailed electrical characterization (circuit design) and some performance tests were conducted with an existing or customized cryogenic measurement system.
Results and expected effects
I have visited Jet Propulsion Lab and conducted research about Superconducting Single Nanowire Detectors (SNSPD) during my visit. For the first phase of the research, I have designed and constructed a photon source for cryogenic system at the Low Temperature Lab. We have tested various SNSPD chips which are fabricated at Micro Device Lab and characterized optimum fabrication parameters for the detection of single photons.
Approach and implementation
During the second phase of the project I have worked on development of a ´Fabrication of YBCO Nanowires for Single Photon Detection´ and ´Analyses of MgB2 thin films´. We are hoping that in long term, we will be doing similar activities in KTH/Electrum Microscopy laboratory located at Kista. I also gave a talk which is announced within the JPL network. In these talks, I have presented our school, KTH, and the experimental results obtained here regarding Superconducting Quantum Interference Devices (SQUIDs) and cryogenic measurements.