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Scaling Energy-Resolving Microwave Kinetic Inductance Detector Readout

Abstract

Superconducting detectors are well-suited to serve as wide field-of-view, energy resolving, single-photon-counting cameras for ground and space-based instruments. These cameras have a wide range of sensitive imaging applications in biology, astronomy, particle physics, cosmology, and quantum information. However, science results have been delayed by challenges in scaling superconducting detectors into large arrays with sufficient pixel resolution to create sharp images. Superconducting Microwave Kinetic Inductance Detectors (MKIDs) are promising detectors for these applications because they are inherently multiplexable, providing a feasible way to create large-format arrays. In this thesis, I present two major improvements made in scaling MKID array technology inside and outside the cryogenic system. First, I discuss a new RFSoC-based digital readout that provides a dramatic reduction in the weight, volume, and power of the room temperature electronics. This compact digital readout enables scaling to megapixel array formats and increases the feasibility of future space-based deployment. Next, I share a new superconducting coaxial ribbon cable that improves readout signal integrity inside the cryogenic system and reduces cryogenic heat load while supporting a dense wiring format. In addition to furthering MKID technologies, these systems may support scaling of other superconducting detector or qubit systems in the near future.

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