A Novel Low-frequency Radio Astronomical Observation Array (1 ∼ 90 MHz) and its First Light

Abstract

The extremely low frequency (f < 40 MHz) is a very important frequency band for modern radio astronomy observations. It is also a key frequency band for solar radio bursts, planetary radio bursts, fast radio bursts detected in the lunar space electromagnetic environment, and the Earth’s middle and upper atmosphere with low dispersion values. In this frequency band, the solar stellar activity, the early state of the universe, and the radiation characteristics of the planetary magnetosphere and plasma layer can be explored. Since there are few observations with effective spatial resolution in the extremely low frequency, it is highly possible to discover unknown astronomical phenomena on such a band in the future. In conjunction with low frequency radio observation on the far side of the Moon, we initially set up a novel low-frequency radio array in the Qitai station of Xinjiang Astronomical Observatory deep in Tianshan Mountains, Xinjiang, China on 2021 August 23. The array covers an operating frequency range of 1 ∼ 90 MHz with a sensitivity of −78 dBm/125kHz, a dynamic range of 72 dB, and a typical gain value of 6 dBi, which can realize unattended all-weather observations. The two antennas due south of the Qitai Low-Frequency Radio Array were put into trial observations on 2021 May 28, and the very quiet electromagnetic environment of the station has been confirmed. So far, many solar radio bursts and other foreign signals have been detected. The results show that this novel low frequency radio array has the advantages of good performance, strong direction, and high antenna efficiency. It can play a unique role in Solar Cycle 25, and has a potential value in prospective collaborative observation between the Earth and space for extremely low frequency radio astronomy.