Comprehensive Radiation Testing of Uncooled, Free Space Coupled, InGaAs Quad Photoreceivers

We have comprehensively tested uncooled, free space coupled, InGaAs Quad Photoreceivers having 0.5mm, 1mm, and 2mm diameter integrated with a low noise transimpedance amplifier (TIA)using 30MeV Protons, 100MeV Protons, 662keV Gamma Rays, 1GeV/n Helium, and 1GeV/n Iron at room temperature of ~20°C.These devices find multiple applications in space for differential wave front sensing as part of a Gravitational Wave Observatory, as well as instrumentation and control for next generation space telescopes. The bandwidth of all receivers was 20MHz which was TIA limited. All 0.5mm and 1mm devices were found to be fully functional at normal operating conditions and at room temperature for Protons, Gamma Rays, 1GeV/n Helium, and 1GeV/n Iron. Only one quadrant of a 2mm In GaAs Quad had hard failure due to 1GeV/n Helium Ions; otherwise it too survived all other radiation tests. Detailed test results follow in the manuscript including recommendations for future space flights. These radiation test results, combined with the earlier successful mechanical shock and vibration testing mean these devices have passed preliminary testing for space qualification.