Broadband terahertz heterodyne spectrometer exploiting synchrotron radiation at megahertz resolution

Abstract

A new spectrometer allowing both high resolution and broadband coverage in the terahertz (THz) domain is proposed. This instrument exploits the heterodyne technique between broadband synchrotron radiation and a quantum-cascade-laser-based molecular THz laser that acts as the local oscillator. Proof of principle for exploitation for spectroscopy is provided by the recording of molecular absorptions of hydrogen sulfide (H$_2$S) and methanol (CH$_3$OH) around 1.073 THz. Ultimately, the spectrometer will enable to cover the 1–4 THz region in 5 GHz windows at Doppler resolution.

Olivier Pirali

Director of Research

My research interests includes high resolution molecular spectroscopy, laboratory astrophysics, and THz generation.

Marie-Aline Martin-Drumel

Researcher

My research interests focus on molecular spectroscopy of stable molecules and reactive species, and its applications for astrophysics and physical-chemistry.