Space infrared detectors from IRAS to SIRTF

摘要

This paper presents a brief review of mid and long-wavelength (6 $mu@m - 200 $mu@m) infrared detector technology used on space borne astronomical missions. Examples of the focal plane designs from the Infrared Astronomical Satellite (IRAS), Cosmic Background Explorer (COBE), Infrared Space Observatory (ISO), and the Space Infrared Telescope Facility (SIRTF) are presented. The major technical innovations considered are low background photoconductors, self-heated amplifiers, Impurity Band Conduction (IBC) detectors, large format arrays, and true cryogenic readout electronics. The impacts of the changing technology base on the kinds of scientific investigations possible are discussed.