Characterize an existing high resolution detector in Radiations, assess its performance as detector in a High Performance Star Tracker, identify re-design needs and prepare a qualification plan.

In order to support the European leadership in the field of Star Trackers, the development of a new detector supporting the high-end is required.Rather than engaging the design of a new image sensor, it is considered more efficient to characterize existing developments, either to engage directly a qualification or to identify needs in terms of delta functionality or performance.State-of-the-art Star Trackers are using today 1 mega-pixel detectors. A detector with 16 mega-pixels will aim at reducing by a factor 4 the angular resolution of one pixel. In addition, the overall performance metrics achievable today are one order of magnitude better (end of life dark current, read noise) than existing and qualified detectors.Despite not originally designed for Star Tracker applications (i.e. high frame rate), some detectors, as for instance Pyxalis HDPYX1600-G, are very attractive due their performance targets and format.A complete characterization of the selected detector targeting its use in a Star Tracker is of major importance. There are many aspects to be considered, such as radiations (TID, TNID, SEE, SEL) - but also an assessment of the package and the available operational modes (full frame, windowing, low power/low frame rate). Upon successful characterization, the component will either directly engage an evaluation / qualification (through an optional programme), or will be re-spun to better serve the Star Tracker market (package and/or silicon).This activity encompasses the following tasks : - Trade-off and selection of detector- Complete characterization before radiation testing.- Tailored evaluation aiming at assessing performance in mechanical, thermal and radiation environment, as well as general packaging quality.- Assessment of performance for a high accuracy Star Tracker embarking the component.- Identification of required customization or re-design.- Preparation of a qualification plan.