A condition under which matter emits radiation based on its intrinsic properties and its temperature, uninfluenced by the magnitude of any incident radiation. LTE occurs when the radiant energy absorbed by a molecule is distributed across other molecules by collisions before it is reradiated by emission. LTE is needed for Planck's law and Kirchhoff's law to apply, and is typically satisfied at atmospheric pressures higher than about 0. 05 mb. Laser radiation is an example of non-LTE emission.