Based on a novel prototype terahertz screening system, its ability of fast three-dimensional (3-D) image reconstruction is demonstrated. We first give a brief introduction of the system. Then detailed analyses on signal model, system calibration, the influences of approximations, and the imaging performances are conducted. At last, proof-of-concept experiments are performed and preliminary 2-D and 3-D imaging results are presented. We show that the imaging problem can be resorted to a problem of spectral estimation finally. At this stage on this prototype system, a 180 cm × 90 cm region at 4-m range costs less than 0.1 s for 2-D imaging, 1 s for 3-D imaging and an extra 2 s for mechanical scanning. Faster speeds are on the horizon as hardware and software updates are ongoing. These results show its potential of real-time 3-D imaging for standoff concealed threats detection.
