Abstract
A high-resolution microwave spectrometer has been developed by converting the Owens Valley solar interferometer to frequency-agile operation. The system uses 27 m antennas equipped with phase-locked receivers which can change their observing frequency in 25 or 50 ms. Microwave spectra between 1 and 18 GHz are obtained in a few seconds by successive observations at up to 86 discrete frequencies. At each frequency the data are equivalent to the total power from each antenna and the interferometric amplitude and phase. All data are fully calibrated with respect to cosmic sources. The instrument was motivated by the need for better microwave spectral resolution for the study of plasma parameters, non-thermal electrons and coronal magnetic field strengths in solar flares and active regions. Early observations with the system are illustrated by a sequence of flare spectra featuring cases with exceptionally narrow continuum bandwidths.
Published Version
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