AMiBA: Broadband Heterodyne CMB Interferometry

TL;DR

AMiBA is a broadband heterodyne interferometer designed for cosmic microwave background studies and galaxy cluster detection, utilizing innovative wide-band analog correlator technology and MMIC components for enhanced sensitivity and scalability.

Contribution

The paper introduces a novel wide-band analog correlator and MMIC-based design for a CMB interferometer, enabling improved sensitivity and expandability for galaxy cluster observations.

Findings

First science results on galaxy clusters via Sunyaev Zel'dovich effect

Successful implementation of broadband analog correlator technology

Expansion from 7 to 13 elements in operation

Abstract

The Y. T. Lee Array for Microwave Background (AMiBA) has reported the first science results on the detection of galaxy clusters via the Sunyaev Zel'dovich effect. The science objectives required small reflectors in order to sample large scale structures (20') while interferometry provided modest resolutions (2'). With these constraints, we designed for the best sensitivity by utilizing the maximum possible continuum bandwidth matched to the atmospheric window at 86-102GHz, with dual polarizations. A novel wide-band analog correlator was designed that is easily expandable for more interferometer elements. MMIC technology was used throughout as much as possible in order to miniaturize the components and to enhance mass production. These designs will find application in other upcoming astronomy projects. AMiBA is now in operations since 2006, and we are in the process to expand the array from 7 to 13 elements.