MIT Haystack Observatory provides opportunities for undergraduate and graduate student research in radio astronomy, geodesy, and atmospheric sciences.
Haystack Observatory has long had a worldwide leadership position in the development and use of the Very Long Baseline (VLBI) technique, which uses a global array of radio telescopes to make high-resolution observations of galactic and extragalactic radio sources and to do precision geodetic studies of the Earth's plate tectonics and motions in space. Using radio telescopes at Haystack and elsewhere around the world, the observatory supports strong programs in both science and technology using VLBI, including unique mm-wavelength observations of the black hole at the center of our galaxy on event-horizon scales.
High-power radars using 46-m and 67-m antennas are used, in conjunction with a variety of other techniques, to study the structure and dynamics of Earth's upper atmosphere. Emphasis is given to the study of the effects of geomagnetic storms induced by solar disturbances on Earth's ionosphere. Haystack researchers also study thermal effects in the upper atmosphere, including signatures associated with global climate change.
A strong instrumentation development program is conducted at Haystack Observatory, particularly in the areas of wideband signal processing and high-rate data acquisition. Current applications include the design of large radio arrays to improve the flexibility and sensitivity of radio observations, as well as ultra-broadband receiving systems for VLBI measurements.
Observatory researchers have led the development of an array spanning 80-300 MHz called the Murchison Widefield Array currently under construction in Western Australia. This innovative instrument offers rich opportunities for unique astrophysical and heliospheric science. Haystack scientists and engineers also are developing advanced low frequency digital radio array technologies for both ionospheric radar and astronomical applications.
Opportunities exist for students to get involved in all these projects and use the facility instrumentation for research investigations.
The Haystack Observatory is located in Westford, MA, about 35 miles northwest of Cambridge. For further information, contact Dr. Colin Lonsdale, MIT Haystack Observatory, Route 40, Westford, MA 01886, 781-981-5542, clonsdale@haystack.mit.edu.