An IR Photodetector Using an Optically Cooled Micromirror as a Light Pressure Sensor

Abstract

We consider mid-infrared (5 to 25 micrometers), optically cooled detectors based on a microcantilever sensor of the radiation pressure. A significant enhancement of sensitivity is achieved due the combination of low effective temperature (10 K), non-absorption detection, and a high quality optical microcavity. Applications to spectrometry are examined. It is shown that an optically cooled radiation pressure sensor potentially has a sensitivity an order of magnitude better than the best conventional uncooled detectors.