Terahertz imaging system for stand-off detection of threats

H.-W. Hübers; A. D. Semenov; H. Richter; U. Böttger

doi:10.1117/12.719309

4 May 2007 Terahertz imaging system for stand-off detection of threats

H.-W. Hübers, A. D. Semenov, H. Richter, U. Böttger

Proceedings Volume 6549, Terahertz for Military and Security Applications V; 65490A (2007) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.719309
Event: Defense and Security Symposium, 2007, Orlando, Florida, United States

Abstract

Suicide bombers and hidden bombs or explosives have become serious threats especially for mass transportation. Until now there exists no established system which can be used against these threats. Therefore new technologies especially for stand-off detection of threats are required. Terahertz (THz) rays offer an alternative inspection method, which can cope with these new challenges. Major advantages of THz radiation as compared to other spectral regions are the possibility to penetrate through clothes and that THz radiation is not harmful for human health. In this report the design and results of a THz stand-off detection system will be presented. The sensor is based on active illumination of the object and sensitive heterodyne detection of reflected and backscattered radiation. The system operates at about 0.8 THz. A THz laser is used for illumination and a superconducting hot-electron bolometric mixer for detection. The local oscillator required for heterodyne detection is a multiplied microwave source. The optical system is designed to allow for stand-off detection at 20 m with a spatial resolution less than 2 cm.

Citation Download Citation

H.-W. Hübers, A. D. Semenov, H. Richter, and U. Böttger "Terahertz imaging system for stand-off detection of threats", Proc. SPIE 6549, Terahertz for Military and Security Applications V, 65490A (4 May 2007); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.719309

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