| dc.description.abstract | Substantial discoveries and achievements in space are waiting to be made. Even though increasing public and private investment has considerably decreased the barrier to entry, many significant advancements require expensive and specialized equipment -- particularly in the electromagnetic spectrum. The Dynamic Affordable Radio Telescope (DART) design is a class of quick deployment and low-cost radio telescopes for single or multi-band use from parts obtainable at a local hardware store. The DART design provided in this thesis is a single band receiver purpose built for hydrogen line observations and serves as a model for cost, implementation and construction. Once complete, it will function as an educational tool for Texas A&M University. Previous research has shown DART like radio telescopes in operation however, these stressed parabolic dish designs are complex and require high tolerances. The DART is not an optimal design, opting to satisfy the role as an instrument for the masses, focused on affordability and ease of implementation. Instead of requiring high precision tools and high tolerance construction techniques, DARTs focus on flexibility. For a fraction of the cost, DARTs can be built using low precision construction techniques while still achieving similar gains and beamwidths as professionally fabricated dishes. After construction, if gain is lacking or additional frequencies need to be observed an existing implementation can be easily modified and optimized. This research focuses on best practices and implementation strategies for constructing DARTs. The methods used are those in theory and experimentation. Theoretical elements such as literature and numeric computations are quick and set a direction however, theory does not directly translate into results. Experimentation, built on theory's foundation, establishes the physical design limits due to unaccounted and complex variables in environment, material and tool availability. Various graphs, explanations, photographs, and a program are prepared to support implementation throughout the design process as well as expression of personal design decisions and challenges. DARTs are designed to be the lowest entry point for organizations and individuals into the electromagnetic spectrum. Unlike traditional telescopes which are purely passive in design, DARTs may be used for passive and active applications such as observations of natural and artificial electromagnetic phenomena. The DART design is the complete package for rapid development and deployment including features such as a motorized mount and programs for both antenna control and construction aid. A high schooler with no experience should be able to afford in both time and money the implementation, control, and maintenance of a DART. The most significant impact of a low barrier to entry radio telescope is providing accessibility to study and interact with the cosmos to the masses. As of March 31, 2023, only the antenna has been constructed. Moving forward antenna testing will be completed and supporting systems will be implemented. | |
