A Plasma Microwave Energy Detector

A detector of microwave energy employing a gaseous discharge is described. The principle of operation is based upon the temperature sensitivity of the electron-ion recombination rate. By photomultiplier observations of the decaying plasma afterglow, short pulses of microwave energy can be detected. At present, the minimum discernible signal strength is about one microwatt peak. The theory, experimental configuration, and prospects for improved sensitivity are discussed.