The rotational spectrum of the X 2Σ+ state of the SrF radical using laser microwave optical double resonance

The pure rotational spectrum of the $\text{X}{}^2\text{Σ}{}^{\mathrm{+}}$ state of the gaseous SrF radical has been measured using microwave optical double resonance (MODR) techniques. The analysis fully confirms the recent dye laser excitation spectrum and rotational assignment of the $\text{B}{}^2\text{Σ}{}^{\mathrm{+}}\text{-X}{}^2\text{Σ}{}^{\mathrm{+}}$ system. Transitions were measured in both the v″ = 0 and v″ = 1 states to give values of B_e″ = 0.250533 cm^?1, α_e″ = 1.546 × 10^?3 cm^?1 and γ″ (spin-rotation) = 2.49 × 10^?3 cm^?1. General qualitative features of MODR in ²Σ⁺ states are treated and suggested improvements for obtaining experimental hyperfine constants are discussed. The more precise ground state constants are merged with the B-X optical analysis to obtain a more accurate set of constants for both states.