Field Test of INSPIRE VLF-3 Receiver at Bell Observatory, 2016 October 14
We have just begun experiments with a VLF and ULF (very low and ultra-low frequency) receiver kit from the NASA-funded INSPIRE project, which is sensitive to a variety of natural radio signals originating inside Earth's own ionosphere with frequencies of 0.3 - 20 kHz (wavelengths of 15 - 1000 km). Such signals are unique in that they may be translated directly to sound waves without any change in pitch as other radio receivers normally apply. While not strictly radio astronomy, these geomagnetic emissions are subject to some of the same physics that arises around other planets like Jupiter, so they are relevant in that sense as well as intrinsically interesting. However, it is critical to observe VLF signals away from sources of artificial interference, such as AC power lines. Evaluation of a suitable observing site is currently underway along with tests of the receiving equipment.
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Field Test of INSPIRE VLF-3 Receiver at Bell Observatory, 2016 October 14 |