Joint Research Laboratories of Infrared Quantum Single Photon SENSors (IQSENS)

We propose the development of novel superconducting (SC) single IR photon nanowire sensors (SNSPDs) with few picoseconds timing resolution, MHz readout rate, detection efficiency close to 100% and on-demand polarization sensitivity, as well as the development of the relevant electronic readout system. The novelty of this project is the extension of SNSPD sensitivity at long wavelengths in the mid infrared range (MIR) from 2 μm to 20 μm or even longer. The NTU group in collaboration with other Taiwanese nano-photonics groups, has recently developed and fabricated NbN prototypes using advanced nanofabrication equipment. The prototypes are currently operating in two cryostats offering T>4K. To develop novel sensors with MIR sensitivity, building a cryogenic setup that can operate at 1K or below is needed, with the desired design for testing the SNSPDs and electronics on single photons. Relying on the local expertise on cryogenics, cryogenic sensors, and electronics, we propose to build and commission a cryogenic test-bench at CEA/Irfu where we also want to develop the relevant low noise readout electronic system and ASICs with low power consumption and precise time-dating capabilities. The NTU group is the founding member of the Taiwan Instrumentation and Detector Consortium (TIDC). Through TIDC, the Taiwanese side not only offers nanofabrication capability, but also detector assembly, wire bonding, metrology as well as mechanics expertise. We propose to design and test the novel SNSPD devices in both Taiwan/NTU and France/CEA/Irfu, through exchanges, short-term and long-term visits, and meetings. The goal of this proposal is to collaborate in cryogenics, electronics and overall sensor design. A collaboration on all these fronts between Irfu and NTU could lead to major developments in this open field in instrumentation.