The terahertz Universe as depicted in new textbook

Terahertz Techniques, a textbook that deals with all aspects of terahertz technology, is now available. Heinz-Wilhelm Hübers is head of the Department of Experimental Planetary Physics at the German Aerospace Center (DLR) Institute of Planetary Research and a professor at the Technische Universität Berlin. Together with Erik Bründermann from the Ruhr University Bochum and Maurice Fitzgerald Kimmitt from the University of Essex, he is one of the three authors of the book published by Springer Verlag. The textbook is a coherent and didactically clearly structured text that communicates the basics as well as providing a comprehensive overview of the current state of scientific knowledge for students and researchers who wish to enter this interesting and rapidly developing field of research.

Formation and evolution of stars

Research into the terahertz range of the electromagnetic spectrum and the development of innovative technologies for its exploitation have progressed at great speed in the last 15 years. The authors of Terahertz Techniques have made crucial contributions in this respect; Kimmitt played a key role in the development of the first terahertz laser in the world. "Although a lot has happened in the field of terahertz research in the last few years, there has never been a textbook that comprehensively covers this highly topical research field," Professor Hübers comments. "The use of terahertz technologies is of particular interest to astronomy and planetary research, as observations in this range of the spectrum can contribute significantly to our understanding of the origin and development of stars, planets and smaller celestial bodies, such as comets or asteroids," Hübers continues. "It is, however, only one part of terahertz research," he added. "Other research fields are spectroscopy and imaging, for example in security applications, quality assurance and industrial process control. There are also potential new areas of application in chemistry, biology and medicine."

A comprehensive book

In almost 400 pages and an introductory chapter on the history of this research field, the Terahertz Techniquestextbook offers detailed information about its basics, the materials, radiation sources, detectors as well as spectroscopy and imaging in the terahertz range. The connection with current research is established by references to more detailed relevant articles. The clear structure guides the reader through the various aspects of terahertz technology. Numerous vivid graphics and pictures supplement the content. An index makes it quick and easy to look up a topic, and the comprehensive bibliography with more than 700 references allows for deeper study. This makes the book suitable both as a general introduction to the subject for students, and as an indispensable reference work for anyone working or intending to work in this exciting research field.