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Published February 2009 | public
Journal Article

Surface adjustment of the IRAM 30 m radio telescope

Abstract

The techniques used to set and stabilise the surface of the IRAM 30 m radio telescope to a final root mean square accuracy of about 50 m are described. This involved both phase retrieval and phase coherent holography using a variety of radiation sources at several frequencies. A finite-element model was utilised in improving the temperature control system for the telescope structure. The factors influencing the ultimate surface accuracy are discussed.

Additional Information

© 2009 IEEE. Received on 5th February 2008. Revised on 7th May 2008. Thanks are due to Sr Calfapietra of Nuova Telespazio and Dr. Marcaronici of the Italian Space Organisation for supplying tracking information for ITALSAT 1F. R. Hills gave help and advice on raytracing and phase retrieval techniques. The staff of the Yebes observatory provided orbital elements for our initial work and help with receiver installation and observations (the late J.E. Garrido). The IRAM staff in Spain provided excellent support over many years – H. Hein, S. Navarro and D. John with hardware and logistics, W. Brunswig and J. Schraml with software and G. Galvez for the screw adjustments. P. Raffin made a model of the telescope support structure. D. Morris thanks the director and staff of the Raman Research Institute for their hospitality and help during the preparation of the manuscript.

Additional details

Created:
August 21, 2023
Modified:
October 18, 2023