Imaging Through the Atmosphere at Terahertz Frequencies

There has been significant recent interest in the application of millimeter wave (MMW), sub-MMW, and THz technology to develop imaging systems that can "see" though either adverse weather environments or through materials such as clothing or baggage. There are numerous challenges to realizing systems operating in these frequency bands which have direct impact on the requirements on the sensor components. The atmosphere and materials exhibit attenuating characteristics that can vary markedly with frequency. These phenomenological issues must be traded off with component performance, architectural designs, as well as resolution requirements. This paper will investigate our current understanding of the phenomenological concerns and there impact on requirements for electronic components and imaging architectures that will produce sensors capable of detecting, and perhaps identifying, concealed objects that may form a security risk. Some conclusions with respect to further technology developments are presented.