Abstract Details
| Name: Arul Pandian B Affiliation: Raman Research Institute Conference ID: ASI2025_727 Title : A Novel LPDA Array for 130 - 350 MHz Pulsar observation at Gauribidanur - Initial Results Authors and Co-Authors : Arul Pandian B 1, Raghavendra Rao K.B. 1, Vinutha C 1, Abhishek R 1, Prabu T 1, Joydeep Bagchi 2 Abstract Type : Oral Abstract Category : Facilities, Technologies and Data science Abstract : We have developed a new array to make pulsar observations in the 130 MHz to 350 MHz band using evenly spaced log periodic antennas at the Gauribidanur observatory. Large aperture arrays such as the upcoming SKA low-frequency telescope will be implemented with randomly spaced antennas. Such random distribution would work better for large arrays. However, an optimal arrangement of antennas may differ for arrays with fewer elements. For observation at low radio frequencies, covering the upper 200 MHz of SKA1-Low bands at the Gauribidanur observatory, a novel tightly spaced antenna array configuration is developed. We have incorporated a newly built RF pipeline into the existing digital receiver for this array. We have developed a new software backend for real-time data reduction and archival purposes, suitable for transient search and high-time resolution pulsar observations. This new array is designed to be sensitive for meridian transit observations, thus allowing polarimetric observation of all sources in the visible sky in a 24-hour observation while reducing interference arising from the low elevations. Hence, a specific observation strategy is developed considering the instrumental characteristics. A matching data reduction and analysis pipeline is also developed and tested. This talk will present salient features of the work, highlighting the details of the processing pipeline, array sensitivity, and our initial results from observing continuum and transient sources, current status, and future plans. |