Science at Low Frequencies with the Long Wavelength Array
The Long Wavelength Array (LWA) is a new multi-purpose radio telescope operating in the frequency range 5-88 MHz with many different operational modes. Scientific programs include (1) the high-z universe, including distant radio galaxies and clusters - tools for understanding the earliest black holes and the cosmological evolution of Dark Matter and Dark Energy; (2) planetary, solar, and space science, including space-weather prediction and extra-solar planet searches; (3) studies of the Earth's ionosphere; and (4) the radio transient universe including the recent discovery of self-emission from meteors. The first station of the LWA, called LWA1, is located near the center of the VLA and has been operating for 5 years. A new station has begun operating at the Owens Valley Radio Observatory in California and a second station in New Mexcio is being commissioned. We are now combining these stations with the new, wide-band, low frequency capability on the VLA. I will discuss a number of scientific results and future prospects
Technical Talk:
So you got a Million Dollars...
The Long Wavelength Array (LWA) is a new type of low frequency radio telescope that is providing a window on the Universe below 100 MHz. I will discuss the benefits and challenges of building an LWA station in Arizona. This discussion will include more technical details about how the LWA station works and lessons learned from building the first three LWA stations in New Mexico and California. I will also explore ways in which the LWA may be expanded over time.