Design and Performance Evaluation of a Tripler as a THz Radiometer Local Oscillator for Spectroscopic Applications in Space Exploration

Water is a vital element for sustaining life on extraterrestrial planets. In this paper, we propose an 80-100 GHz tripler based on a Schottky diode to supply a CubeSat standard 183 GHz THz radiometer for detecting water on outer planets. We introduce the THz anti-parallel Schottky diode and its layout, serving as the core component of the tripler, enabling efficient frequency multiplication in the THz range. The structure of the THz radiometer tripler is presented, explaining its design and functionality. Analysis reveals a conversion loss of 2 dB within the 80-100 GHz frequency range, demonstrating the tripler's efficiency in generating the desired 183 GHz THz frequency for water detection. The successful implementation of this tripler design contributes to the development of a CubeSat-compatible THz radiometer, enhancing our ability to detect and study water on outer planets. This advancement opens new prospects for exploration and potential habitability assessment in outer space.

I. Introduction

The exploration of outer space and the search for habitable environments beyond Earth have become paramount in our quest to understand the vast universe. Water, being a fundamental requirement for life as we know it, holds immense significance in our exploration endeavors. The detection of water on extraterrestrial planets is a crucial step in determining their potential habitability. Terahertz (THz) spectroscopy has emerged as a powerful tool for remote sensing and detection in various fields, including space exploration. The THz frequency range, spanning from 0.1 to 10 THz, offers unique advantages in probing molecular and atomic transitions. One essential component in THz systems is the Schottky diode, which exhibits fast response times and operates efficiently in the THz range [1]. The tripler, a frequency multiplier device, plays a pivotal role in THz radiometry by generating higher frequencies from lower input signals. By utilizing a Schottky diode, the tripler facilitates the conversion of an input frequency to a desired higher frequency for specific applications.