With the discovery of high temperature ceramic superconductors, great advancements in focal plan array (fpa) technology are anticipated. A preliminary performance analysis indicates that both the detectivity of fpas, due to reduction in noise, as well as their image acquisition speed, due to low loss transmission, can be significantly enchanced and reach the gigahertz range. Superconductive circuit elements suitable for applications in infrared (ir) fpas are being investigated. Superconductor detection mechanisms as well as superconductor multiplexor technology are being studied. An analysis and trade study is being performed which compares the performance and technology risks of a superconducting readout with a charge coupled device or switch array. A readout unit cell is being designed as is a superconducting detector integrated with the optimum readout, essentially a fpa unit cell. A performance model is being made of the fpa unit cell. An evaluation and a circuit analysis of the selected detector and readout performance model is being undertaken to provide five projected operating characteristics. Superconducting infrared focal phanes have the potential of achieving a hundred fold performance increased over conventional ir arrays.
