Measurement in the Submillimeter-Wavelength Region

A survey is given of current measurement activities at submillimeter wavelengths with particular regard to those carried out at the National Physical Laboratory. HCN and H20 lasers and Fourier transform spectrometry form the basis of the techniques. Outlines of their application to measurements of the absorption and refraction of solids and liquids, the emission of atmospheric gases and plasmas, and reflection from lossy materials such as semiconductors are given. Frequency and wavelength measurements and their application to a determination of the speed of light are also discussed.