Atomic Layer Deposition-Enhanced Far-to-Mid Infrared Camera Coating

About this technology

Overview

Infrared (IR) cameras for space missions require robust coatings that are cryogenically cooled to reduce thermal noise and are low-reflectance absorptive to mitigate image artifacts such as glinting, ghosting, and internal reflections. Thermal noise reduction improves as temperatures decrease (e.g., below 30 K). However, capturing the far-to-mid IR spectrum typically requires thick layers of common 'super black' coatings, which often use free-standing nanotubes or foam-like structures that become fragile below 120-150 K. In response, engineers at Goddard Space Flight Center developed an Atomic Layer Deposition (ALD)-Enhanced Far-to-Mid IR Camera Coating that can be cooled to and operate at less than 30 K while maintaining low-reflection absorption. The coating results in enhanced optical performance, increased strength, reduced total mass, and suitable ionizing radiation control.