The E-2 Sigma(+) -> C-2 Pi transition of NO and term values for the A, D, E, and C lowest Rydberg levels

The E(2)Sigma(+) --> C(2)Pi Rydberg-Rydberg transition of (NO)-N-14-O-16 ne ar 8492 cm(-1) has been studied by Fourier transform spectrometry in the em ission from a de excited supersonic jet expansion and from a de discharge u nder equilibrium conditions. The same transition has also been observed in laser-induced stimulated emission. Line wavenumbers of the 0-0, 1-1, and 2- 2 bands, together with data for previously published near-infrared transiti ons, have been reduced to consistent sets of rovibronic term values for v = 0, 1, and 2 of the A(2)Sigma(+), D(2)Sigma(+), E(2)Sigma(+), and C(2)Pi st ates which frequently serve as intermediates in the multiphoton excitation of higher Rydberg levels of NO. (C) 2000 Academic Press.