# STTR Phase I: Beyond Shot Noise - Plasmonic Metasurface Coherent Optical Detection for Room Temperature, Single Photon Detectors

> **NSF 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT** · CLEARVIEW OPTICS LLC (MA) · $304,987

## Abstract

The broader impact and commercial potential of this Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I project lie in advancing light detection technology through the development of highly sensitive detectors capable of sensing a single particle of light at room temperature. Unlike existing technologies that require extreme cooling, these detectors offer greater accessibility and efficiency, with applications spanning satellite communication, secure online communication, national security, and healthcare. In satellite-based optical communication, they can enable faster, more secure, and reliable data transmission, while in cybersecurity, they can strengthen quantum encryption to protect against cyber threats. Their use in defense may enhance surveillance and threat detection, and in healthcare, they may improve medical imaging and diagnostics by increasing sensitivity and accuracy. By supporting data privacy, sustainable and energy-efficient solutions, and global security, this technology addresses critical societal needs. With a rapidly growing $1.5 billion market for space communication and an annual growth rate of 16–30%, these detectors have the potential to drive innovation and create widespread economic and technological advancements.

This Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I project will address the need for ultrasensitive optical detectors and ranging systems that provide a critical means for information acquisition and perception of the real world. Coh

## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2507603
- **Awardee organization:** CLEARVIEW OPTICS LLC (MA)
- **SAM.gov UEI:** H6Z4HLTJLT85
- **PI:** Andres F Zuluaga
- **Primary program:** 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
- **All programs:** Optics and Photonics
- **Estimated total:** $304,987
- **Funds obligated:** $304,987
- **Transaction type:** Standard Grant
- **Period:** 06/15/2025 → 11/30/2026

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2507603

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2507603, STTR Phase I: Beyond Shot Noise - Plasmonic Metasurface Coherent Optical Detection for Room Temperature, Single Photon Detectors. Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-09 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2507603. Licensed CC0.

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