Performance of high frame-rate x-ray CCDs for future strategic missions

Abstract

Future high-resolution x-ray imaging missions at both strategic (Probe and Great Observatory) and smaller scales require mega-pixel focal planes with high frame rates and near-theoretical spectroscopic performance. We report test results from advanced charge-coupled devices (CCDs) developed at MIT Lincoln Laboratory for such missions. These devices incorporate two new technologies already demonstrated in small devices: a single-polysilicon gate structure enabling efficient, low-power charge transfer, and a low-noise pJFET output amplifier capable of < 3 electrons RMS noise at megahertz pixel rates. Here we report results from the first application of these technologies in a prototype large format (2k x 1k pixel, 5 x 2.5 cm2) frame transfer CCD with eight parallel outputs. In architecture, total area, and pixel count this device meets requirements for strategic missions. First measurements of noise, charge transfer efficiency and spectral resolution and achieved frame-rate are compared with requirements of candidate missions. Next steps toward maturation of this technology are briefly discussed.