A Correlation Interferometer for Interplanetary Scintillation Observations

Abstract

A correlation interferometer of the phase-switching type operating at a frequency of 103 MHz, developed for interplanetary scintillation (IPS) observations, is described. Two outputs, sin and cos, of the correlation receiver give rapidly changing voltage fluctuations produced by a compact scintillating radio source. A scintillometer output, proportional to the square of the scintillating flux, enables measurement of scintillation index. More than 100 strong and weak scintillating sources have been observed. This is the first of the three IPS radio telescopes being developed in India for studying the interplanetary medium.

Indexing Terms:

• Interferometer
• IPS
• Radio Telescope

Additional information

Notes on contributors

R. Sharma

Ramesh Sharma: (b. 1942). Obtained BSc from Sagar University in 1963, BESc. in 1966 and ME in 1968 from Jabalpur University. He joined Physical Research Laboratory (PRL) in 1968 in Radio Astronomy Group. Since then working on the design and development of various types of antennae, and antenna arrays for the Solar Radio Astronomy studies at PRL.

At present, involved in the design and development of three large radio telescopes to be set up at Ahmedabad, Rajkot and Surat for Interplanetary Scintillation (IPS) studies. His areas of interest are microwaves and antennas.

N.S. Nirman

Nirman, N S: (b. 1939 Aug. 12). Joined Indan Navy in 1956 and received training in the field of electronics with special emphasis on Radar and Communication systems from the Naval Technological School, Mamnagar. On completion of 10 years assigning in the Navy in 1966, joined Physical Research Laboratory, Ahmedabad in the department of Radio Astronomy. The major projects accomplished are: The development of wideband sweep frequency solar radio spectroscope, high resolution sweep frequency spectroscope, phase switched interferometer, and microwave radiometer. Presently working as Electronics Engineer in the Interplanetary Scintillations project involving the development of three Radio Telescopes at 103 MHz.

P. Venat

Venat, P (b. 1939): Was in Indian Navy since 1957. He had initial training in Electronics at Naval School in Jamnagar (Gujarat), and worked on various Radar and Radio equipment on-board ships and establishments.

Joined the Physical Research Laboratory in 1968 and worked in the department of Radio Astronomy. Was responsible for testing and development of Microwave Radiometer at 2.8 GHz. Since 1977, working in the Interplanetary Scintillation group which is setting up three gaint radio telescopes at Ahmedabad, Rajkot and Surat. He is mainly responsible for the construction and testing of antenna arrays of the three stations.