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Search indexed NASA NTRS and DOE OSTI research on propulsion, heat transfer, battery materials and energy systems. Follow report and document links to the original sources.

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At least 55 records · Page 3
All sourcesNASA NTRSDOE OSTI
DOE OSTI2024

Radiatively cooled quantum microwave amplifiers

Superconducting microwave amplifiers are essential for sensitive signal readout in superconducting quantum processors. Typically based on Josephson junctions, these amplifiers require operation at milli-Kelvin temperatures to achieve quantum-limited performance. Here, we demonstrate a quantum microwave amplifier that employs radiative cooling to operate at elevated temperatures and maintain near quantum-limited added noise. This kinetic-inductance-based parametric amplifier, patterned from a single layer of relatively high-Tc NbN thin film, maintains a high gain and meanwhile enables low added noise of 1.3 quanta when operated at 1.5 K. Remarkably, this represents only a 0.2 quanta increase compared to the performance at a base temperature of 0.1 K. Based on our findings, we also discuss the practicality of such an operating scheme for various quantum applications. By uplifting the parametric amplifiers from the mixing chamber without compromising readout efficiency, this work represents an important step toward more scalable microwave quantum technologies.

Physics↗
DOE OSTI2023

Transmon qubit readout fidelity at the threshold for quantum error correction without a quantum-limited amplifier

Abstract High-fidelity and rapid readout of a qubit state is key to quantum computing and communication, and it is a prerequisite for quantum error correction. We present a readout scheme for superconducting qubits that combines two microwave techniques: applying a shelving technique to the qubit that reduces the contribution of decay error during readout, and a two-tone excitation of the readout resonator to distinguish among qubit populations in higher energy levels. Using a machine-learning algorithm to post-process the two-tone measurement results further improves the qubit-state assignment fidelity. We perform single-shot frequency-multiplexed qubit readout, with a 140 ns readout time, and demonstrate 99.5% assignment fidelity for two-state readout and 96.9% for three-state readout–without using a quantum-limited amplifier.

Chen, Liangyu (ORCID:0000000250722445)↗
DOE OSTI2020

Josephson Junctions and Cosmic Microwave Background

The implementation of utilizing superconducting quantum interference device (SQUID) readout for constant voltage biased transition edge sensors (TES) has enabled the detection of the infinitesimal fluctuation in cosmic microwave background (CMB). The properties of the fluctuations will provide us the information of the universe at the time that this light was first emitted. In short, by measuring the CMB today, we learn about the distant, ancient universe—how the universe began, what it is made of, and how it evolved to its current state. Over the past 20 years, we have achieved many successful CMB measurements with Josephson junctions. Brian, I extend my congratulations on your eight decades of life—Happy 80th birthday!

75 CONDENSED MATTER PHYSICS, SUPERCONDUCTIVITY AND↗
NASA NTRS2020

Assembly and Integration Process of the High-Density Detector Array Readout Modules for the Simons Observatory

The Simons Observatory will measure the cosmic microwave background tempera-ture and polarization using a suite of new telescopes in the Atacama Desert in Chile. The Simons Observatory will use dichroic transition edge sensor (TES) bolometer arrays spanning six frequency bands from 27 to 280 GHz. The Simons Observa-tory will pioneer the use of a densely packed multiplexing architecture based on the microwave SQUID multiplexer ( 𝜇mux), housing ∼2000 microwave resonators, each coupled to a TES. The Simons Observatory aims to multiplex each array of ∼2000 detectors with a single pair of coaxial cables and requires a multiplexing factor of ∼1000 . The Simons Observatory cryogenic readout system is called the universal microwave multiplexing module (UMM). The UMM couples to both horn and lenslet-coupled detector arrays and is integrated into the universal focal-plane module (UFM) after being independently characterized. We present processes we have developed for highly repeatable and automated integration methods of UMMs, which will be needed for the production of the 49 UFMs required for the first stage of the Simons Observatory.

CMB↗
DOE OSTI2024

Results and Limits of Time-Division Multiplexing for the BICEP Array High-Frequency Receivers

Time-division multiplexing is the readout architecture of choice for many ground and space experiments, as it is a very mature technology with proven outstanding low-frequency noise stability, which represents a central challenge in multiplexing. Once fully populated, each of the two BICEP Array high-frequency receivers, observing at 150 GHz and 220/270 GHz, will have 7776 TES detectors tiled on the focal plane. The constraints set by these two receivers required a redesign of the warm readout electronics. The new version of the standard multichannel electronics, developed and built at the University of British Columbia, is presented here for the first time. BICEP Array operates time-division multiplexing readout technology to the limits of its capabilities in terms of multiplexing rate, noise and cross talk, and applies them in rigorously demanding scientific application requiring extreme noise performance and systematic error control. Finally, future experiments like CMB-S4 plan to use TES bolometers with time-division/SQUID-based readout for an even larger number of detectors.

47 OTHER INSTRUMENTATION↗
DOE OSTI2023

Characterization of superconducting through-silicon vias as capacitive elements in quantum circuits

The large physical size of superconducting qubits and their associated on-chip control structures presents a practical challenge toward building a large-scale quantum computer. In particular, transmons require a high-quality-factor shunting capacitance that is typically achieved by using a large coplanar capacitor. Other components, such as superconducting microwave resonators used for qubit state readout, are typically constructed from coplanar waveguides, which are millimeters in length. Here, we use compact superconducting through-silicon vias to realize lumped-element capacitors in both qubits and readout resonators to significantly reduce the on-chip footprint of both of these circuit elements. We measure two types of devices to show that through-silicon vias are of sufficient quality to be used as capacitive circuit elements and provide a significant reduction in size over existing approaches.

Physics↗
NASA NTRS2019

Development of Space-Flight Compatible Room-Temperature Electronics for the Lynx X-Ray Microcalorimeter

We are studying the development of space-flight compatible room-temperature electronics for the Lynx x-ray microcalorimeter (LXM) of the Lynx mission. The baseline readout technique for the LXM is microwave SQUID multiplexing. The key modules at room temperature are the RF electronics module and the digital electronics and event processor (DEEP). The RF module functions as frequency converters and mainly consists of local oscillators and I/Q mixers. The DEEP performs demultiplexing and event processing, and mainly consists of field-programmable gate arrays, ADCs, and DACs. We designed the RF electronics and DEEP to be flight ready, and estimated the power, size, and mass of those modules. There are two boxes each for the RF electronics and DEEP for segmentation, and the sizes of the boxes are 13 in: × 13 in: × 9 in: for the RF electronics and 15.5 in: × 11.5 in: × 9.5 in: for the DEEP. The estimated masses are 25.1 kg∕box for the RF electronics box and 24.1 kg∕box for the DEEP box. The maximum operating power for the RF electronics is 141 W or 70.5 W∕box, and for the DEEP box is 615 W or 308 W∕box. The overall power for those modules is 756 W. We describe the detail of the designs as well as the approaches to the estimation of resources, sizes, masses, and powers.

Sakai, Kazuhiro↗
NASA NTRSDate not supplied

Large-Scale Magnetic Microcalorimeter: Modeling and Multiplexing

We will present performance predictions for a large-scale magnetic microcalorimeter detector array intended for a potential future X-ray astrophysics mission. The focal plane comprises three distinct array designs, necessitating over 100,000 pixels to meet the scientific objectives. Our presentation will describe the results of numerical modeling aimed at estimating the energy resolution and detector responses for each array. Additionally, we will discuss the application of microwave multiplexing technology for the comprehensive readout of the entire sensor array.

x-ray↗
DOE OSTI2025

Demonstration of a 1820 channel multiplexer for transition-edge sensor bolometers

The scalability of most transition-edge sensor arrays is limited by the multiplexing technology, which combines their signals over a reduced number of wires and amplifiers. Here, in this Letter, we present and demonstrate a multiplexer design optimized for transition-edge sensor bolometers with 1820 sensors per readout unit, a factor of two more than the previous state-of-the-art. The design is optimized for cosmic microwave background imaging applications, and it builds on previous microwave superconducting quantum interference device multiplexers by doubling the available readout bandwidth to the full 4–8 GHz octave. Evaluating the key performance metrics of yield, sensitivity, and crosstalk through laboratory testing, we find an end-to-end operable detector yield of 78%, a typical nearest-neighbor crosstalk amplitude of ∼0.4%, and a median white noise level of 83 pA/$\sqrt{\textrm{Hz}}$ due to the multiplexer, corresponding to an estimated contribution of 4% to the total system noise for a ground-based cosmic microwave background telescope. Additionally, we identify a possible path toward reducing resonator loss for future designs with reduced noise. We expect these developments to alleviate the system complexity, cryogenic requirements, and cost of future large arrays of low temperature detectors.

cosmic microwave background↗
NASA NTRS2007

Cryogenic Detector Technology for Space Science Application

We review the current status of detector development at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center and address future prospect for space science application. In particular, the IR detector capability and applicability to second generation SOFIA instrument will be discussed. We will examine areas such as 3-dimensional hybridization of large format bolometer arrays to readout multiplexers; advanced light coupling scheme for planar ortho-mode transducer circuitry; integration of high density readout wiring for low temperature detector arrays; and microwave multiplexers for large format superconducting detector arrays.

Ting-Wen, Hsieh↗
NASA NTRS1999

Precise Frequency Measurements Using a Superconducting Cavity Stabilized Oscillator

Many physics experiments call on improved resolution to better define the experimental results, thus improving tests of theories. Modern microwave technology combined with high-Q resonators can achieve frequency readout and control with resolutions up to a part in 10(exp 18). When the physical quantity in question in the experiment can be converted to a frequency or a change in frequency, a high-stability microwave oscillator can be applied to obtain state-of-the-art precision. In this work we describe the overall physical concepts and the required experimental procedures for optimizing a high-resolution frequency measurement system that employs a high-Q superconducting microwave cavity and a low-noise frequency synthesizer. The basic approach is to resolve the resonant frequencies of a high-Q (Q > 10(exp 10)) cavity to extremely high precision (one part in 10(exp 17)- 10(exp 18)). Techniques for locking the synthesizer frequency to a resonant frequency of the superconducting cavity to form an ultra-stable oscillator are described. We have recently set up an ultra-high-vacuum high-temperature annealing system to process superconducting niobium cavities, and have been able to consistently achieve Q > 10(exp 9). We have integrated high-Q superconducting cavities with a low-noise microwave synthesizer in a phase-locked-loop to verify the frequency stability of the system. Effects that disturb the cavity resonant frequency (such as the temperature fluctuations and mechanical vibrations) and methods to mitigate those effects are also considered. Applicability of these techniques to experiments will be discussed, and our latest experimental progress in achieving high-resolution frequency measurements using the superconducting-cavity-stabilized-oscillator will be presented.

Strayer, D. M.↗
DOE OSTI2020

Performance of a low-parasitic frequency-domain multiplexing readout

Frequency-domain multiplexing is a readout technique for transition-edge sensor bolometer arrays used on modern cosmic microwave background experiments, including the SPT-3G receiver. Here, we present design details and performance measurements for a low-parasitic frequency-domain multiplexing readout. Reducing the parasitic impedance of the connections between cryogenic components provides a path to improve both the crosstalk and noise performance of the readout. Reduced crosstalk will in turn allow higher-multiplexing factors. We have demonstrated a factor of two improvement in parasitic resistance compared to SPT-3G hardware. Reduced parasitics also permits operation of lower-resistance bolometers optimized for improved readout noise performance. We demonstrate that a module in the prototype system has comparable readout noise performance to an SPT-3G module when operated with dark TES bolometers in the laboratory.

frequency-domain multiplexing↗
DOE OSTI2024

End-to-End Modeling of the TDM Readout System for CMB-S4

The CMB-S4 experiment is developing next-generation ground-based microwave telescopes to observe the cosmic microwave background with unprecedented sensitivity. This will require an order of magnitude increase in the 100-mK detector count, which, in turn, increases the demands on the readout system. The CMB-S4 readout will use time-division multiplexing (TDM), taking advantage of faster switches and amplifiers in order to achieve an increased multiplexing factor. To facilitate the design of the new readout system, we have developed a model that predicts the bandwidth and noise performance of this circuitry and its interconnections. This is then used to set requirements on individual components in order to meet the performance necessary for the full system. Here, we present an overview of this model and compare the model results to the performance of both legacy and prototype readout hardware.

47 OTHER INSTRUMENTATION↗
NASA NTRS2012

NASA Tech Briefs, September 2012

Topics covered include: Beat-to-Beat Blood Pressure Monitor; Measurement Techniques for Clock Jitter; Lightweight, Miniature Inertial Measurement System; Optical Density Analysis of X-Rays Utilizing Calibration Tooling to Estimate Thickness of Parts; Fuel Cell/Electrochemical Cell Voltage Monitor; Anomaly Detection Techniques with Real Test Data from a Spinning Turbine Engine-Like Rotor; Measuring Air Leaks into the Vacuum Space of Large Liquid Hydrogen Tanks; Antenna Calibration and Measurement Equipment; Glass Solder Approach for Robust, Low-Loss, Fiber-to-Waveguide Coupling; Lightweight Metal Matrix Composite Segmented for Manufacturing High-Precision Mirrors; Plasma Treatment to Remove Carbon from Indium UV Filters; Telerobotics Workstation (TRWS) for Deep Space Habitats; Single-Pole Double-Throw MMIC Switches for a Microwave Radiometer; On Shaft Data Acquisition System (OSDAS); ASIC Readout Circuit Architecture for Large Geiger Photodiode Arrays; Flexible Architecture for FPGAs in Embedded Systems; Polyurea-Based Aerogel Monoliths and Composites; Resin-Impregnated Carbon Ablator: A New Ablative Material for Hyperbolic Entry Speeds; Self-Cleaning Particulate Prefilter Media; Modular, Rapid Propellant Loading System/Cryogenic Testbed; Compact, Low-Force, Low-Noise Linear Actuator; Loop Heat Pipe with Thermal Control Valve as a Variable Thermal Link; Process for Measuring Over-Center Distances; Hands-Free Transcranial Color Doppler Probe; Improving Balance Function Using Low Levels of Electrical Stimulation of the Balance Organs; Developing Physiologic Models for Emergency Medical Procedures Under Microgravity; PMA-Linked Fluorescence for Rapid Detection of Viable Bacterial Endospores; Portable Intravenous Fluid Production Device for Ground Use; Adaptation of a Filter Assembly to Assess Microbial Bioburden of Pressurant Within a Propulsion System; Multiplexed Force and Deflection Sensing Shell Membranes for Robotic Manipulators; Whispering Gallery Mode Optomechanical Resonator; Vision-Aided Autonomous Landing and Ingress of Micro Aerial Vehicles; Self-Sealing Wet Chemistry Cell for Field Analysis; General MACOS Interface for Modeling and Analysis for Controlled Optical Systems; Mars Technology Rover with Arm-Mounted Percussive Coring Tool, Microimager, and Sample-Handling Encapsulation Containerization Subsystem; Fault-Tolerant, Real-Time, Multi-Core Computer System; Water Detection Based on Object Reflections; SATPLOT for Analysis of SECCHI Heliospheric Imager Data; Plug-in Plan Tool v3.0.3.1; Frequency Correction for MIRO Chirp Transformation Spectroscopy Spectrum; Nonlinear Estimation Approach to Real-Time Georegistration from Aerial Images; Optimal Force Control of Vibro-Impact Systems for Autonomous Drilling Applications; Low-Cost Telemetry System for Small/Micro Satellites; Operator Interface and Control Software for the Reconfigurable Surface System Tri-ATHLETE; and Algorithms for Determining Physical Responses of Structures Under Load.

Source record↗
DOE OSTI2024

Development of an MKID frequency-to-pixel LED mapper for SPT-3G+

SPT-3G+ is the next-generation camera for the South Pole Telescope (SPT). SPT is designed to measure the cosmic microwave background (CMB) and the mm/sub-mm sky. The planned focal plane consists of 34,000 microwave kinetic inductance detectors (MKIDs), divided among three observing bands centered at 220, 285, and 345 GHz. Each readout line is designed to measure 800 MKIDs over a 500 MHz bandwidth, which places stringent constraints on the accuracy of the frequency placement required to limit resonator collisions that reduce the overall detector yield. To meet this constraint, we are developing a two-step process that first optically maps the resonance to a physical pixel location, and then next trims the interdigitated capacitor (IDC) to adjust the resonator frequency. We present a cryogenic LED apparatus operable at 300 mK for the optical illumination of SPT-3G+ detector arrays. We demonstrate integration of the LED controls with the GHz readout electronics (RF-ICE) to take data on an array of prototype SPT-3G+ detectors. We show that this technique is useful for characterizing defects in the resonator frequency across the detector array and will allow for improvements in the detector yield.

46 INSTRUMENTATION RELATED TO NUCLEAR SCIENCE AND ↗
DOE OSTI2021

Three-Wave Mixing Kinetic Inductance Traveling-Wave Amplifier with Near-Quantum-Limited Noise Performance

We present a theoretical model and experimental characterization of a microwave kinetic inductance traveling-wave (KIT) amplifier, whose noise performance, measured by a shot-noise tunnel junction (SNTJ), approaches the quantum limit. Biased with a dc current, this amplifier operates in a three-wave mixing fashion, thereby reducing by several orders of magnitude the power of the microwave pump tone and associated parasitic heating compared to conventional four-wave mixing KIT amplifier devices. It consists of a 50 Ω artificial transmission line whose dispersion allows for a controlled amplification bandwidth. We measure $16.5^{+1}_{–1.3}$ dB of gain across a 2 GHz bandwidth with an input 1 dB compression power of –63 dBm, in qualitative agreement with theory. Using a theoretical framework that accounts for the SNTJ-generated noise entering both the signal and idler ports of the KIT amplifier, we measure the system-added noise of an amplification chain that integrates the KIT amplifier as the first amplifier. This system-added noise, 3.1 ± 0.6 quanta (equivalent to 0.66 ± 0.15 K) between 3.5 and 5.5 GHz, is the one that a device replacing the SNTJ in that chain would see. This KIT amplifier is therefore suitable to read large arrays of microwave kinetic inductance detectors and promising for multiplexed superconducting qubit readout.

42 ENGINEERING↗
DOE OSTI2023

High-efficiency microwave-optical quantum transduction based on a long-coherence-time cavity electro-optic system

We propose a 3D quantum transduction architecture based on a long-coherence-time superconducting cavity coupled to an electro-optic resonator. The 3D hybrid system enables high-efficiency conversion between microwave and optical quantum signals, with potential applications in optical readout of qubits, high-fidelity entanglement generation and high-precision sensing.

46 INSTRUMENTATION RELATED TO NUCLEAR SCIENCE AND ↗
DOE OSTI2026

Theory of quasiparticle generation by microwave drives in superconducting qubits

Microwave drives play a central role in the control of superconducting quantum circuits, enabling qubit gates, readout, and parametric interactions. As the drive frequencies are typically an order of magnitude smaller than (twice) the superconducting gap, it is generally assumed that such drives do not disturb the BCS ground state. However, sufficiently strong drives can activate multiphoton pair-breaking processes that generate quasiparticles (QPs) and result in qubit errors. In this work, we present a theoretical framework for calculating the rates of multiphoton-assisted pair-breaking transitions induced by charge- or flux-coupled microwave drives. Through illustrative examples, we show that photon-assisted QP generation may affect novel high-frequency dispersive readout architectures, as well as Floquet-engineered superconducting circuits operating under strong driving.

circuit quantum electrodynamics↗