Chapter 1 - Introduction

Abstract

This chapter opens with a discussion on efficient detection system provided by nature. Almost all types of life, from bacteria, to plants, to human beings, have evolved some type of optoelectronic detection system for perceiving the world around them. The goal of science is to enhance our senses and better understand the universe around us. Infrared detectors broaden our vision into the realm of heat, allowing remote sensing of an object's temperature. This has had a dramatic impact on how we perceive our environment, and has led to many types of thermal imaging, including night vision, infrared astronomy, medical diagnostics, and failure analysis. Most infrared photon detectors have a limited photo carrier lifetime and peak detection wavelength that is fixed by the band gap of the material. The purpose of the book is to present current methods and future directions in infrared detection. By bringing together experts in physics, material science, fabrication technology, and application, we can develop a well-rounded view of how far we have progressed towards the goal of an integrated, versatile, infrared detection system.