Real-time imaging of moving living objects using a compact terahertz scanner

In this study, we design a compact terahertz (THz) reflection scanner with a scan rate of 20 frames/s. This scanner is based on a benzocyclobutene-embedded InGaAs Schottky barrier diode detector having a maximum responsivity of 300 V/W at 250 GHz and a minimum noise equivalent power of 38 pW/. With this scanner, details such as sharp head and tail and wrinkled segments in a moving caterpillar are observed. The thin and thick parts of the moving caterpillar that are presented in light gray and dark gray, respectively, on the gray scale are also well distinguished.