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B.E. Mizrahi (Yale University), A.E.E. Rogers (Haystack Observatory)
As an educational tool, the Small Radio Telescope (SRT) is continuously being modified and improved in both software and hardware. Its original analog receiver allowed users to observe only 1420 MHz hydrogen emission and strong continuum sources like the sun; this limitation prompted development of a digital version to expand the telescope's capabilities. The digital receiver, which has replaced the analog on our telescope, has increased stability and sensitivity- these greatly extend the scope of research possible with the SRT. This newfound flexibility necessitated a search for appropriate radio sources, eventually concentrated on OH masers. Calibration and equipment tests, as well as software updates, are ongoing as the refinement of the receiver continues. The research and testing process for the digital receiver, as well as a description of the projects now available to the SRT, are outlined here. This research was conducted as part of an NSF REU program at MIT Haystack Observatory in Westford, MA.