Lessons learned from SCUBA-2 for future cryogenic instrumentation inspace

摘要

Various planned space astronomy missions such as SPICA, SAFIR, Constellation-X and XEUS will require detectors operating at ultra-low temperatures. Our current relevant experience in space is limited, and future instruments are in any case likely to have more demanding requirements. We must therefore take advantage of experience on the ground. The SCUBA-2 ground-based instrument is probably the largest and (thermally) most complex astronomical instrument ever built to operate at such low temperatures. The thermal design has been very successful, and I discuss techniques we have developed and lessons we have learned that will be applicable to future space missions.