Feedhorn-Coupled TES Polarimeters for Next-Generation CMB Instruments

Abstract

The next generation of cosmic microwave background (CMB) polarization experiments targeting the signatures of inflation will require unprecedented sensitivities in addition to careful control of systematics. With existing detector technologies approaching the photon noise limit, improvements in system sensitivities must come from ever‐larger focal plane arrays of millimeter‐wave detectors. We report on the design and performance of microfabricated planar orthomode transducer (OMT) coupled TES polarimeters and silicon micromachined platelet feedhorns optimized for scaling to large monolithic arrays. Future versions of these detectors are targeted for deployment in a number of upcoming CMB experiments, including ABS, SPTpol, and ACTpol.