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The Capability of the PARI 26-m Radio Telescopes

J. D. Cline, M. W. Castelaz, C. S. Osborne

Pisgah Astronomical Research Institute

The Pisgah Astronomical Research Institute (PARI) is a radio observatory located in the Pisgah National Forest in western North Carolina.  Two 26-m radio telescopes on the site are available for surveys, low spatial resolution mapping, or long-term periodic observations.  The telescopes, along a nearly East-West 300 m baseline, each have 1420 MHz, 4.85 GHz and 12.2 GHz ambient temperature receivers.  As ambient temperature receivers, flux sensitivities are ~1 Jy at each frequency.  The receiver signals are detected by spectrometers capable of 5 KHz spectral resolution and up to 4 MHz bandwidths.  The control system of the spectrometers allows simultaneous measurement of the spectrum and total flux within the bandpass.  Also, the spectrometers are interfaced to the 26-m telescope control system for raster scanning mapping.  The raster scan map size and spacing are defined by the observer. 

            The telescopes point to within 3 arcminutes, and track at sidereal or custom rates.  The telescope computer control software, designed at PARI, can control both telescopes simultaneously either in separate or synchronized mode.  Tracking can be refined by optical guide cameras with autoguide capability.  

            We will present examples of spectra and maps taken with the radio telescopes.  Maps include extended and point sources.  Spectra showing a variety of resolutions and bandpasses will be presented.

            Astronomers will find the 26-m radio telescopes ideal for demonstration of radio telescope observing techniques, preparation for observations at other observatories, and proof-of-concept work for instrumentation development.  Future plans call for development of a simple two-element interferometer.  Temperature control of the receivers is also planned.