Research on ICCD for space observation of cosmic ray and dark matter

The low light level imaging and ultrafast detection system is a high performance ICCD composed of imaging intensifier and high-frame-rate CCD, the important readout system of the semi-digital 3D-imaging calorimeter for space observation of cosmic ray and dark matter that has the function of intensifying, delaying, imaging and memorizing, making rapid response to the ultrafast low light signals that is transmitted by tens of thousands of wavelength shifting fibers, generated by the semi-digital 3D-imaging calorimeter when cosmic ray is passing through. Using the images of ICCD and the semi-digital information reconstruction method, the particle type, energy and direction of cosmic ray can be obtained. By solving some key technologies such as coupling techniques of optical parts, low noise and high speed imaging of high-frame-rate and large-area CCD, the high speed gating system of imager intensifier, the prototype of high performance ICCD is developed. The prototype of ICCD can meet the requirements: up to 400 frames per second, detection ability for low light about 10 photons, linear dynamic range more than 300.Performances verification of the prototype is carried out by using a single photon test system. In this paper we will describe the requirement of ICCD for the ground cosmic detection system which is used to verify the theory of Herd (High Energy Cosmic-Radiation Detection), the key techniques used to achieve perfect performances, and test method and result of the ICCD.