Rosella: the compact detector controller for small satellite science missions

Rosella delivers the full programmability and performance of traditional large-observatory controllers in a compact, modular, power optimised and radiation-tolerant architecture for space applications. It provides high-speed, low-noise readout of advanced detectors - including Leonardo SAPHIRA eAPD arrays and Teledyne HxRG focal plane arrays - making it a potential detector control solution for small-satellite science missions and future missions like Gaia-NIR. Rosella supports up to 32 video channels with an analog pixel data resolution of 16-bits. Low-noise detector power and bias supplies are provided by a voltage programmable sequencing circuit allowing for control over voltage dependent detector characteristics including avalanche gain. Strategies to enhance tolerance to radiation are discussed. Rosella’s performance characteristic testing results of an engineering model controlling a Leonardo Saphira detector at cryogenic temperatures will be presented.