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Session 11 - VLBI & Radio Instrumentation.
Display session, Wednesday, January 07
Exhibit Hall,
The Morehead Radio Telescope (MRT) is a research instrument for undergraduate astronomy and physics students and an active laboratory for physics, engineering, and computer science undergraduates and faculty. The goals of the MRT program are to enhance the curricula in physics, physical science, electronics, and science education programs by serving to provide: 1.) a research instrument for investigations in astronomy and astrophysics; 2.) an active laboratory in astronomy, physics, electrical engineering, and computer science; and 3.) a research instrument and laboratory for science teacher education and inservice programs. The telescope incorporates a modular design in which components may be easily removed for use in laboratory investigations and for student research and design projects. The performance characteristics of the telescope allow a varied and in-depth scientific program. The sensitivity and versatility of the telescope design facilitate the investigation of a wide variety of astrophysically interesting phenomena. This presentation provides an update of the operating status of the MRT, including systems upgrades and a brief discussion of data collected to date. The MRT has been used to observe a variety of astronomical objects in transit mode. Among these objects are: Taurus A, Virgo A, and the sun. These objects were observed in transit mode. An analysis of the data will be presented along with suggestions for future experiments.
