My NASA Experience

• Pioneered early near‑infrared detector arrays for astronomy, starting with a single‑pixel sensor. • Secured NASA R&A funding in 1983 to acquire a 32×32 HgCdTe kilopixel array. • Tested array on ground telescopes, revealing unexpectedly low dark current performance. • Findings suggested suitability for second‑generation HST infrared instruments. • Collaborated with George Rieke and NASA HQ, shaping future space missions. • Experience highlighted importance of rigorous detector characterization for mission success.

Sources:

• https://science.nasa.gov/missions/explorer/my-nasa-experience/