Title :
Terahertz Spectroscopy for Astronomy: From Comets to Cosmology
Author_Institution :
Steward Obs., Univ. of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
Abstract :
The terahertz portion of the electromagnetic spectrum is perhaps the last largely-unexplored wavelength frontier for astronomical observations. It is also one of the most diagnostic, harboring spectral signatures of ions, atoms, and molecules that are central to our understanding of the composition and origin of the Solar System, the evolution of matter in our Galaxy, and the star formation history of galaxies over cosmic timescales. In this brief overview, specific astronomical applications of terahertz spectroscopy will be highlighted with examples of current heterodyne capabilities, and projection of future astronomical demands upon terahertz instrumentation.
Keywords :
astronomical techniques; comets; cosmology; galaxies; star formation; terahertz waves; astronomical observation; comets; cosmic timescales; cosmology; electromagnetic spectrum; extragalactic astronomy; galaxies; largely-unexplored wavelength frontier; solar system; spectral signatures; star formation; terahertz instrumentation; terahertz radiation; terahertz spectroscopy; Clouds; Extraterrestrial measurements; Planets; Solar system; Telescopes; Extragalactic astronomy; galactic astronomy; gas spectroscopy; heterodyne instruments;
Journal_Title :
Terahertz Science and Technology, IEEE Transactions on
DOI :
10.1109/TTHZ.2011.2159648
