Abstract

The Microwave Limb Sounder on the Aura satellite has a radiometer at $2.5\text{\hspace{0.17em} THz}$ to perform global mapping of OH in the atmosphere. The OH radiometer utilizes two Schottky-diode mixers pumped by an optically pumped THz gas laser local oscillator. The laser was first turned on in space on July 22, 2004, and has performed without issue for more than 30 months. The specifications, design, and modeling of this $2.5\text{\hspace{0.17em} THz}$ laser local oscillator are presented here, along with some of the important design validation and test results.

© 2007 Optical Society of America

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