The three-year Technology for European iNdependence in Space Image Sensor (TENSIS) project will address the EU-based development of advanced CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide Semiconductor) imaging sensors.
The project will aim to create a strategic, competitive advantage for European prime and equipment manufacturers and reduce the dependence on critical technologies and capabilities from outside the EU.
The program was launched at an inauguration event in consortium member Teledyne e2v facilities in Saint-Egrève, France. It aims to validate a scalable, large-area, high-resolution, radiation tolerant, customisable, and affordable 180nm CMOS detector characterised by a 24K x 16K stitched CMOS matrix of 400MPixels. A smaller 4K x 4K stitched CMOS array will also be designed and manufactured.
Teledyne e2v Semiconductors SAS and Teledyne Innovaciones Microelectronicas SL will oversee the project, design the detectors, including the pixel, while Imec will manage the development of the optical stack on top of the CMOS detector, including filters and optical microlenses.
Airbus will lead the development of the test equipment and assess the performance of the detector prototypes. Alter Technology Tüv Nord will validate the smaller 4K x 4K detector for use in the space environment.
“TENSIS will result in the development of advanced image sensors for space that are high-resolution and durable against space conditions,” Marc Iliozer, project & engineering director at Teledyne e2v said in a statement. “The project will help establish strategic capability in Europe and ensure independence in space technology for years to come.”
The project will run until 31 December 2027. The 24k x 16k stitched CMOS array is expected to reach Technology Readiness Level 6, with a prototype sensor tested in a relevant environment. The 4k x 4k CMOS detector will reach TRL7, taking it one step closer to final product development.
“The partners are excited to be collaborating on the TENSIS project,” said Iliozer. “It is a venture that epitomises the spirit of European innovation and cooperation.”
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