Single-photon direct detectors in the submillimeter, far-IR and mid-IR range are highly desirable for reaching the sensitivity permitted by the low background noise of cryogenic-optics space telescopes, such as envisioned in NASA’s Origins Space Telescope concept. When combined with arrays of integrated spectrometers they can enable revolutionary advances in astrophysical studies such as fast spectroscopic surveys of the high redshift universe from space. Coherent receivers, which are fundamentally limited by quantum vacuum noise are critical for high-spectral-resolution studies of molecular and atomic emission lines and can reveal the origins of galaxies, stars, and even life. They can also enable future space-based VLBI missions, such as the Photon Ring Telescope concept, to study black holes. I will review recent advances in key superconducting technologies being developed for the above areas, including single-photon far/IR Kinetic Inductance Detectors, integrated submillimeter spectrometers, and quantum-limited kinetic inductance amplifiers for microwave readout of detectors and for mm/sub-mm coherent receivers.
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