The DARPA OpTIm program
Mukund Vengalattore, Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (United States)
Infrared imaging at the quantum limits The DARPA Optomechanical Thermal Imaging (OpTIm) program seeks to develop a novel modality of low-SWaP quantum-limited infrared detection. Building upon proof-of-concept studies and detailed noise analyses, the OpTIm device concept amalgamates high performance optomechanical sensors, quantum-limited all-optical readout techniques, and spectrally resolved metamaterial-based IR absorbers to realize several order-of-magnitude improvements in both IR sensitivity and detection speed. I will give a brief overview of the OpTIm program concept, the over-arching goals of this program, and a summary of innovations that have resulted from the program thus far. I will also describe the numerous technological applications and opportunities that are engendered by the novel capabilities of OpTIm imaging systems.
Mukund Vengalattore joined DARPA in May 2022 as a program manager in the Defense Sciences Office. His interests include harnessing principles of quantum science and non-equilibrium quantum dynamics to create new capabilities in the broad areas of quantum-enhanced sensors; positioning, navigation and timing (PNT); quantum information science and related quantum technologies. Prior to joining DARPA, Dr. Vengalattore was in the physics department at Cornell University where he led an experimental research program in the areas of ultracold quantum gases, optomechanics and hybrid quantum systems. His work includes the use of quantum measurement backaction to create novel forms of quantum behavior, 'noise-engineering' techniques to enhance the sensitivity and coherence of quantum sensors, and the creation and study of robust out-of-equilibrium states of matter in isolated quantum systems.
This keynote is part of the Image Sensing Technologies: Materials, Devices, Systems, and Applications XII conference.
Event Details
FORMAT: Presentation followed by audience Q&A.MENU: Coffee, decaf, and tea will be available in the exhibition area.
SETUP: Classroom and theater style seating.