THz QCLs for heterodyne receivers and wavelength modulation spectroscopy

Milliwatt average power terahertz quantum cascade lasers (THz-QCLs, 2 THz to 5 THz) have been developed for spectroscopy and as local oscillators for heterodyne receivers. Novel DFB THz-QCLs have been fabricated and show single-mode operation. The narrow line widths of < 10 MHz and stark shift tuning of of 6 GHz, allows for wavelength modulation spectroscopy of low pressure gasses in the unexplored THz frequency band. The same devices also act as local-oscillators for heterodyne receivers for remote-sensing and astronomy. Lastly we report on improved tunable DFB devices for use in spectroscopy. Keywords: terahertz quantum cascade laser, spectroscopy, heterodyneNational Science Foundation (U.S.) (SBIR IIP/1330955)United States. National Aeronautics and Space Administration (SBIR NNX15CP15C