Photon spot, INC. Proposes to develop an ultra-compact, ultra-low vibration cryogenic system appropriate for large-format snspd cameras, optimized for time-resolved imaging applications such as…

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) awarded a $283,393.88 Cooperative Agreement under the CHIPS Research and Development (CFDA 11.042) program to Photon Spot Inc., a minority-owned for-profit manufacturer of advanced cryogenic systems and superconducting nanowire single photon detectors. The award supports the development of an ultra-compact, ultra-low vibration cryogenic system optimized for time-resolved imaging applications, such as time-resolved emission microscopy. Photon Spot Inc. plans to demonstrate the feasibility of their design and construct two prototypes, which are expected to enable integrated circuit manufacturers to pinpoint and correct defects in the manufacturing process, reducing development time and cost. The award has a performance period from October 1, 2024 to July 31, 2027. Photon Spot Inc. also intends to subaward funds to support the deployment and testing of their system for deep space optical communication.

Activities

The awardee intends to demonstrate feasibility of their design and four interrelated subcomponents and then construct two prototypes.

Expected outcomes

Their system will allow the integrated circuit manufacturers to pinpoint and correct defects in the manufacturing process and reduces development time and cost.

Intended beneficiaries

Integrated circuit manufacturers and researchers conducting experiments on quantum technologies.

Subrecipient activities

The recipient plans to subaward funds to deploying and testing their system for deep space optical communication.