The dotTHz Project: A Standard Data Format for Terahertz Time-Domain Data and Elementary Data Processing Tools

TL;DR

The dotTHz project introduces a standardized data format and open-source tools for terahertz time-domain spectroscopy to improve data sharing, processing, and collaboration within the research community.

Contribution

It provides the first standardized data format and open-source processing tools for terahertz time-domain data, promoting interoperability and community-driven development.

Findings

Standardized data format for terahertz data

Open-source tools for data processing and interpretation

Encourages community collaboration and tool development

Abstract

From investigating molecular vibrations to observing galaxies, terahertz technology has found extensive applications in research and development over the past three decades. Terahertz time-domain spectroscopy and imaging have experienced significant growth and now dominate spectral observations ranging from 0.1 to 10 THz. However, the lack of standardised protocols for data processing, dissemination, and archiving poses challenges in collaborating and sharing terahertz data between research groups. To tackle these challenges, we present the dotTHz project, which introduces a standardised terahertz data format and the associated open-source tools for processing and interpretation of dotTHz files. The dotTHz project aims to facilitate seamless data processing and analysis by providing a common framework. All software components are released under the MIT licence through GitHub repositories to encourage widespread adoption, modification, and collaboration. We invite the terahertz community to actively contribute to the dotTHz project, fostering the development of additional tools that encompass a greater breadth and depth of functionality. By working together, we can establish a comprehensive suite of resources that benefit the entire terahertz community.