Summary

The 12 meter radio telescope is a precision surface antenna protected by a 20 meter Gore-Tex radome.

The antenna (below) is an elevation over azimuth configuration, controlled remotely via fiber optics from the main control center in building #1. Radio Frequency (RF) is also linked via fiber optics to the control room in building #1.

The 12 meter's precision surface is evident in this photo. Pseudo-random shaping of the GoreTex radome panels also allows for lower loss and a more extended frequency range operation than might be possible in a more conventional geodesic dome design.

Prime focus feeds currently in place support: 6 cm (3.3 - 4.2 GHz) and 3 cm (10.95 - 12.75 GHz).

A removable cassegrain subreflector and feed assembly is also available for 6 / 5 cm (6.6 - 8 GHz) operation.

This antenna is a good candidate for a 22.235 GHz water maser survey.

Current Status

Sunday, June 12, 2005

Will be placed in operational status when funding is acquired.