The following frequencies are generally accepted spectral regions for radio astronomical observations in radio astronomy. There are others frequencies, but I've chosen to list the regions that maybe most accessible by an amateur radio astronomer.
- 13.360 – 13.410 Mhz
- 25.550 – 25.670 Mhz
- 37.5 – 38.25 Mhz
- 73 – 74.6 Mhz
- 150.05 – 153 Mhz
- 322 – 328.6 Mhz
- 406.1 – 410 Mhz
- 608 – 614 Mhz
- 1.4 – 1.427 Ghz
- 1.6106 – 1.6138 Ghz
- 1.66 – 1.67 Ghz
- 2.655 – 2.700 Ghz
- 4.8 – 5 Ghz
- 10.6 – 10.7 Ghz
The above bands are based on Australian Radiofrequency Spectrum Plan - Radiocommunications Act 1992
The lower segments are used for solar and Jupiter observations; the 73, 150 and 406 MHz segments are quite popular for pulsar, and the 1.4 Ghz band is used for hydrogen line measurements, which seems to be the most popular with many amateur radio astronomer. Aslo made even more so by the Seti League Program
In very simple terms the equipment to build a Radio Telescope are:
- A sensitive radio which can receive one of the above frequencies.
- A radio with "No" AGC (automatic gain control) or has the ability to turn it off.
- A high gain low noise pre-amp and a directional antenna which can be pointed at the sky.
- A Data Logger to record total signal strength of the radio over a period of time
The signal strength of the radio is recorded over a period of time, signal levels will increase and decrease as a radio emitting object passes across the sky. Over number of days it is possible isolate radio astronomical observations from ground and satellite interference.
Radio Astronomy links:
Radio astronomy - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Hydrogen line - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The Parkes Observatory
Amateur radio astronomy with SIMPLE 20 MHz arrays
