Future prospects of superconducting direct detectors in terahertz frequency range

Large format arrays using high-sensitivity detectors are being fabricated using superconducting devices. TES bolometer array with SQUID readout is one example and superconducting direct detector, or SIS photon detector, is another example. I will discuss on merits and drawbacks of each detector technology and show advantages of the SIS photon detectors over TES bolometers. Some aspects of detectors will be discussed such as operating temperature, input coupling, sensitivity, noise sources, and readout electronics. Wavelength coverage, dynamic range, time response and immunity to interference are key parameters to identify detector for astronomy and industrial applications. Further improvements in detector performance are required for future space observatories in terahertz frequencies that are a strong driving force to develop high-sensitivity large format array detectors.