A Gas-Discharge Noise Source for Eight-Millimeter Waves

A noise source of the gas-discharge type for use at eight rillimeters wavelength is described. Noise temperatures of 19,300 degrees K (18.2 db above room temperature) using neon, and 11,500 degrees K (15.9 db) using argon, have been measured by means of a microwave radiometer. These figures agree well with values calculated from gas-discharge theory.