| Name: | Aman Kaushik |
| Affiliation: | Tata Institute of Fundamental Research |
| Conference ID : | ASI2024_678 |
| Title : | Wide field, wide bandwidth feed design for the All Sky Transient Radio Array (ASTRA) |
| Authors : | Aman Kaushik1, Kavitha Kalyanasundaram2, Saurabh Singh2, Shriharsh Tendulkar1, Mayuri S Rao2 |
| Authors Affiliation: | 1- Tata Institute of Fundamental Research
2- Raman Research Institute |
| Mode of Presentation: | Oral |
| Abstract Category : | Facilities, Technologies and Data science |
| Abstract : | Fast Radio Bursts (FRBs) are millisecond-second timescale transients detected in the ∼300 MHz – 8 GHz radio bands. They are one of the most violent sources of energy in radio frequency bands emitting at luminosity range of 10^(41) − 10^(44) erg s−1. Majority of the detected FRBs are extra galactic and are observed randomly in the sky at a rate of 525 ± 30(stat.)^(+142)_( −131) (sys.)/sky/day above a fluence of 5 Jy-ms at 600 MHz. For understanding FRB emission mechanisms, it is critical to detect their multi-wavelength counterparts in X-ray/γ-ray bands. The All Sky Transient Radio Array (ASTRA) is being designed with an ultra-wide field of view, optimised to detect the brightest and nearest FRBs allowing us to study them in different wavelength regimes, which is not possible for far away FRBs. Using CST Microwave studio, we have designed a robust, low-cost dipole feed and Robert’s balun for ASTRA that can be easily scaled for an array with a large number of signal chains. The feed is optimised to have an ultra-wide field of view (>10000 sq deg), and an operating frequency range from 400-800 MHz. These feeds will serve in a regularly spaced array on the ground as the frontend for ASTRA. Here we will describe the design and optimisation of the first and second versions of the antennas, based on aluminium sheets and copper clad boards, respectively. We will conclude by discussing the on-field performance of the antennas and the balun in an array and the future developments to be made.
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