masers
Coherent radiation sources
Masers are devices that amplify electromagnetic radiation using stimulated emission—the same principle behind lasers, but operating at microwave frequencies rather than visible light.
The word is an acronym: Microwave Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation.
Masers preceded lasers historically and remain important in radio astronomy and atomic clocks, where their extreme precision matters.
Logically connected throughout
- monochromaticOf one hue
- population inversionExcited states predominate
- resonanceAmplified oscillation at natural frequency
- cavityEmpty space within
frequency · wavelength · electromagnetic · photon · energy levels · quantum · oscillation · radiation
Cyclic signal generator
- atomic clockQuantum-vibration timekeeping device
- amplifierSignal-strengthening electronic device
- gyroscopeSpinning disc measuring orientation
- laboratoryFacility for scientific investigation
cryogenic · parametric · solid-state · Gordon · Nobel Prize · invention · precision timing
Magnetized rotating neutron emitter
- quasarLuminous active galactic core
- radio wavesLow-frequency electromagnetic radiation
- interstellarBetween celestial bodies
- cosmicPertaining to the universe
astrophysical · star formation · celestial · nebula · redshift · cosmology · observatory · radio telescope
Quantum-vibration timekeeping device
- timekeepingMeasuring duration's passage
- GPSSatellite-based location technology
- navigationDetermining position and course
- deep space networkStations reaching distant craft
radio astronomy · radar · communication · amplifier · metrology
coherent
Logically connected throughout
- monochromaticOf one hue
- population inversionExcited states predominate
- resonanceAmplified oscillation at natural frequency
cavity · frequency · wavelength · electromagnetic · photon · energy levels · quantum · oscillation · radiation · absorption
oscillator
Cyclic signal generator
- atomic clockQuantum-vibration timekeeping device
- amplifierSignal-strengthening electronic device
- gyroscopeSpinning disc measuring orientation
laboratory · cryogenic · parametric · solid-state · Gordon · Nobel Prize · invention · precision timing
pulsar
Magnetized rotating neutron emitter
- quasarLuminous active galactic core
- radio wavesLow-frequency electromagnetic radiation
- interstellarBetween celestial bodies
cosmic · astrophysical · star formation · celestial · nebula · redshift · cosmology · observatory · radio telescope · Arecibo
atomic clock
Quantum-vibration timekeeping device
- timekeepingMeasuring duration's passage
- GPSSatellite-based location technology
- navigationDetermining position and course
deep space network · radio astronomy · radar · communication · amplifier · metrology