an absolute beginner needs some help

[Brian W]

Hi all, after @2 years of visual astronomy I find my greatest frustration is the number of nights I loose to clouds.

I have absolutely no knowledge about radio astronomy. On the plus side about 20 years ago I did earn a basic ham license.

I am hoping that someone here will direct me to both the theory and some -very- basic DIY. Living, as I do in the Philippines, store bought equipment is not available but there are some people that have the needed skills to build basic equipment IE modify television satellite dishes and hook up various components.

Brian

[CarlJoseph]

Hi Brian,

Unfortunately I can't offer you any assistance. I'm interested in learning a bit more about this as well so will be watching this thread with keen eyes.

Cheers,
Af.

[Barrykgerdes]

Hi Brian

Have a look at the thread on Radio astronomy and jupiter.

Radio astronomy is basically listening to noise from celestial objects. The most common noise is from hydrogen at about 1400 Mhz. You will need a a receiver with good low noise amplifier and a directional aerial to point at Jupiter or the Sun which are strong sources of these emissions. There is one refered to in that thread.

Using interferometry techiques with highly directional aerial systems the source and intensity of these emissions can be mapped but this is generally beyond the resources of amateurs. You will need at least 12 ft dish to do anything along these lines coupled to a low noise amplifier and a special receiver to do anything serious.

Barry

[Insane Climber]

Hello I have no idea how this would be done, but you got my interest and here are some links i found,

http://www.instructables.com/id/Poor-Man-s-Radio-Telescope/

http://www.3peaks.org.uk/Radio%20Telescope/Details/radiotel.htm

http://www.bambi.net/