Total hemispherical emissivity (epsilon(T)) and constant pressure heat capacity (C-p) of molten Nb, which has a high melting point, was measured using FT-IR combined with an electrostatic levitator. In order to heat the sample to temperatures higher than 2000 degrees C and avoid chemical reactions between the sample and a crucible, a containerless method was needed. By applying these methods, the measured epsilon(T) of molten Nb at the melting temperature was 0.29, and the C-p was calculated as 41.9 J . mol(-1) . K-1. Both data showed good agreement with the literature values. In addition, the result was compared with the Drude model and the difference of emissivity between Zr and Nb was discussed. (C) 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.