The Atacama Large Millimeter/Submillimeter Array (ALMA) in Chile has undergone a significant upgrade with the integration of 145 new low-noise amplifiers (LNAs). This enhancement aims to improve the telescope’s capabilities in observing the cosmos, particularly in studying the cold interstellar medium, planet-forming disks, and complex organic molecules.
ALMA, one of the world’s most advanced radio telescopes, utilizes 66 parabolic antennas to detect millimeter and submillimeter radiation emitted by cold molecular clouds. These clouds are critical for understanding how new stars are born. Each antenna is equipped with high-frequency receivers that cover ten wavelength ranges, specifically 35–50 GHz and 787–950 GHz, collectively referred to as Band 1.
New Amplifiers Expand Research Capabilities
The recent upgrade includes the addition of amplifiers developed by the Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Solid State Physics (IAF) and the Max Planck Institute for Radio Astronomy (MPIfR). These new LNAs extend ALMA’s operational capabilities into Band 2, covering frequencies from 67 to 116 GHz. This expanded coverage is expected to enhance researchers’ ability to study the formation of stars and planetary systems.
Specifically, the upgraded technology will enable scientists to delve deeper into the cold interstellar medium, which consists of dust, gas, and radiation. Additionally, researchers will be able to investigate planet-forming disks with greater clarity and examine complex organic molecules (COMs) in nearby galaxies. These molecules are considered precursors to the building blocks of life, such as DNA and RNA.
Dr. Fabian Thome, who leads the subproject at Fraunhofer IAF, highlighted the significance of this advancement. The incorporation of LNAs equipped with a series of monolithic microwave integrated circuits (MMICs) is crucial for amplifying low-noise signals while minimizing background interference. This upgrade enhances the sensitivity of ALMA’s receivers, allowing for more precise observations.
Collaborative Efforts Yield State-of-the-Art Technology
The European Southern Observatory (ESO) commissioned both Fraunhofer IAF and MPIfR for this project. Fraunhofer IAF was responsible for the design, manufacturing, and testing of the MMICs, while MPIfR focused on assembling and qualifying the LNA modules, followed by testing them in cryogenic conditions.
“This is a wonderful recognition of our fantastic collaboration with Fraunhofer IAF, which shows that our amplifiers are not only ‘made in Germany’ but also the best in the world,” said Prof. Dr. Michael Kramer, executive director at MPIfR.
The successful integration of these low-noise amplifiers marks a pivotal moment for ALMA, enhancing its ability to contribute to our understanding of the Universe. With this advancement, astronomers are poised to uncover new insights into how stars and planetary systems evolve, as well as the role of organic molecules in the emergence of life.
