Dr. Sutton at the University of California, Berkeley, has constructed a receiver which can be used for astronomical observations at submillimeter wavelengths. This project consists primarily of enhancing the scientific capabilities of an otherwise working instrument. By installing the receiver on a telescope and obtaining spectroscopic data on molecular lines at a frequency of 345 GHz, Dr. Sutton will prove the performance of his instrumentation for astronomical research in a newly opened window of the electromagnetic spectrum. The submillimeter wavelength region of the electromagnetic spectrum has been largely inaccessible for astronomical observations due to the limitations of the Earth's atmosphere as well as technical difficulties with constructing receivers and telescopes for use at such short wavelengths. That situation is rapidly changing. Currently a number of large, high surface accuracy telescopes are becoming available, and the scientific productivity is limited primarily by the quality of the receivers. Several groups are constructing receivers for these telescopes. Dr. Sutton is at the forefront of this receiver development effort.
