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A Large Throughput High Resolution Fourier Transform Spectrometer for Submillimeter Applications

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Abstract

We have designed and constructed a Fourier Transform Spectrometer (FTS) for the study of submillimeter-wave mixers and optical components. The FTS has a large aperture (up to 25.4 cm) and small focal ratio (as fast as f/2.5) to achieve a large throughput. It operates in the 100-3750 GHz (3.3-125 cm−1) frequency range with a resolution of up to 75 MHz (0.0025 cm−1). Here we discuss the design goals and provide a detailed description of the construction of the FTS. In addition, we highlight the variety of studies which have been conducted with this instrument, which include characterizing SIS mixers through both direct and heterodyne detection and measuring the properties of optical materials.

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Author notes

  1. M. Bin

    Present address: , 30801 Agoura Rd., Agoura Hills, CA, 91301

  2. M. C. Gaidis

    Present address: JPL, Mail Stop 168-314, Pasadena, CA, 91109

  3. T. H. Büttgenbach

    Present address: Bach Corporation, 625 Fair Oaks Blvd., Suite 230, South Pasadena, CA, 91030

  4. E. Serabyn

    Present address: JPL, Mail Stop 171-113, Pasadena, CA, 91109

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Downs Laboratory of Physics, California Institute of Technology, Mail Code 320-47, Pasadena, California, 91125.

    M. Bin, D. J. Benford, M. C. Gaidis, T. H. Büttgenbach, J. Zmuidzinas, E. Serabyn & T. G. Phillips

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  1. M. Bin
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  7. T. G. Phillips
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Bin, M., Benford, D.J., Gaidis, M.C. et al. A Large Throughput High Resolution Fourier Transform Spectrometer for Submillimeter Applications. International Journal of Infrared and Millimeter Waves 20, 383–400 (1999). https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1021709330349

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