Because of the Center's vital role in the Nation's space program, Goddard employees have gained significant expertise in areas such as detector development, optics, cryogenics, microelectronics, X-ray astronomy, communications, Earth observation and information systems. Goddard's leadership in detector development has included trailblazing work. Detectors are used to determine the presence of electromagnetic waves or high-energy particles and are the essential elements of virtually all scientific instruments. The CdZnTe technology was developed to accurately locate gamma-ray bursts, determine their distance scale and measure the physical characteristics of the emission region. Goddard engineers also have significantly advanced far infrared detector technology, and have developed a miniature light source to accurately calibrate detectors in the visible and infrared wavelengths.
Technological advancements impact the world.
For example, advancements in detector technology have enabled improvements in various medical instruments. Patients may receive lower doses of radiation during X-ray procedures with increased early detection capability because of advancements in detector sensitivity. Other commercial applications of Goddard's detector technology have included environmental monitoring, industrial manufacturing, criminal investigations, night vision applications, energy efficiency monitoring and weather monitoring systems. Support for Other NASA Programs and Enterprises Goddard supports NASA programs and Enterprises in a number of areas. For example, the Center provides space communications support for the Space Shuttle program, ground communications and launch range support for all NASA missions and assist NASA Headquarters with various business functions.