FEATURE
Large-Format, CMOS-Based Imager Produces ‘First-Light’ Image
Two Goddard technologists who characterized the world’s first large-format, CMOS-based visible imager as part of a 2-year-old partnership with the U.S. Naval Observatory (USNO) say they are “ecstatic” over the camera’s performance and are confident that it will find widespread application with NASA’s exploration initiative and future science missions.
Principal Investigator Peter Shu and his co-investigator, Laddawan Miko, delivered the 16-million-pixel prototype camera system to the USNO’s facility in Flagstaff, Arizona, in late May and within a few weeks the observatory had taken its “first-light image” measuring highly precise positions of stars. “We were ecstatic because it worked,” Miko said. “It assured our leadership role in building the best detectors in the world.”
IReturns Data Faster and at Higher Resolution
The CMOS image-sensing technology, developed in part with Goddard Internal Research and Development funding, is significant because it provides a large image area and returns data faster and at a higher resolution than other imaging technologies, Miko said.
In addition, it allows users to select a particular “window” in the sky from which to gather data. The ability to create a “window” can be electronically programmed. In other words, “you can target an area you want to see, program the window, and get the data quickly,” Miko added.
|
 Goddard technologists say they are “ecstatic” over the performance of the world’s first large-format, CMOS-based visible imager, which took this first-light image from a U.S. Naval Observatory facility in Arizona. |
Rendezvousing and Docking Potential
This capability makes the technology ideal for exploration, in addition to its obvious scientific applications, Shu said. One possible use is with rendezvousing and docking. Using the Shuttle and International Space Station as an example, the CMOS-based camera could image the Space Station from a distance. As the Shuttle moved closer, the system would zoom in on the docking port, providing a larger and more detailed image of where the Shuttle was supposed to attach itself.
The next step is to carry the technology to the next level and create an even larger format containing 64 million pixels, Miko said. In addition, the technology’s flexibility allows it to be easily adapted to other wavelength regimes, in addition to visible light.
|
