APERTIF, a focal plane array for the WSRT
M.A.W. Verheijen, T.A. Oosterloo, W.A. van Cappellen, L. Bakker, M.V., Ivashina, J.M. van der Hulst
TL;DR
This paper presents a prototype focal plane array for the WSRT that significantly increases its field of view and bandwidth, enabling faster sky surveys and improved detection of astronomical phenomena.
Contribution
Introduction of a Vivaldi-element based FPA prototype for WSRT, aiming to enhance survey capabilities and scientific output.
Findings
FPA increases WSRT's field of view by 25 times.
Bandwidth of WSRT doubled with the new FPA.
Prototype demonstrates feasibility for widespread deployment.
Abstract
In this paper we describe a focal plane array (FPA) prototype, based on Vivaldi elements, developed for the Westerbork Synthesis Radio Telescope (WSRT) to increase its instantaneous field of view by a factor 25 and double its current bandwidth. This prototype is the first step in a project that has the ambition to equip most of the WSRT antennas with FPAs to improve the survey speed of the telescope. Examples of scientific applications are surveys of the northern sky in polarised continuum and HI emission, and efficient searches for pulsars and transients.
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