Quanta image sensors for space applications

Photon counting has been identified as an area of interest in a multitude of sectors, including in defense and space applications. The quanta image sensor (QIS) is a promising emerging technology for ultra-low light imaging due to its extremely low dark current and deep sub-electron read noise. In space applications, radiation damage is a primary concern; it is not yet known how the photoelectron counting capability fairs in such a harsh environment. To this end, we explore the effects of radiation on a commercially available QIS camera, with particular emphasis on any changes in the sensor’s photon counting sensitivity. We observe an overall increase in the dark current, however, the QIS is still able to count photons after the highest radiation dose. We observe an increase in the sensor’s readout noise, which could contribute to photon miscounting. We explore the use-cases of QIS cameras for upcoming missions requiring single-photon sensitivity, and compare these devices to legacy photon counting technologies, such as electron-multiplying CCDs.