Abstract

Astrophysical measurements in the far-infrared (FIR) wavelengths are crucial for a variety of astrophysical applications. These include probing the fuel for cosmic star formation, understanding the developmental cycles of protoplanetary disks, and investigating the role and composition of dust in the interstellar medium. Our collaboration is currently developing a FIR on-chip spectrometer that is operable in the range of 100-200µm, utilizing low-noise kinetic inductance detectors (KIDs). As these devices incorporate new technology, their spectral response must be measured and compared with traditional FIR optical dispersion methods. To this end, we have designed a cryogenic Fourier Transform Spectrometer (FTS) that operates at temperatures of approximately 15K and is based on the classical Michelson interferometer design. The FTS allows us to filter the input signal and produce an interferogram at the out- put within a shared vacuum stage. In this work, I discuss the design, fabrication, and testing of the cryogenic FTS, and report on its performance as an FIR spectrometer.

Publication Date

8-2024

Document Type

Thesis

Student Type

Graduate

Degree Name

Astrophysical Sciences and Technology (MS)

Department, Program, or Center

Physics and Astronomy, School of

College

College of Science

Advisor

Donald Figer

Advisor/Committee Member

Joel Kastner

Advisor/Committee Member

Michael Zemcov

Campus

RIT – Main Campus

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