Can the VLA Antennas Be Used as Transmitters?

-- Patrick | November 29, 2021

Question:

Hello, is it technically possible to use the New Mexico Very Large Array (or similar radio telescope arrays) as a transmitter to send out signal?
I’m aware the transmitter of the Arecibo Telescope had been used to transmit the Arecibo Message, however I’m not sure if other radio telescopes, such as VLA, have the same technical ability.

-- Patrick

Answer:

Yes, the individual antennas of the VLA can be used to transmit signals. I am not aware of this aspect of the VLA antennas actually being used, though.

-- Jeff Mangum

Facebook

Twitter

The National Radio Astronomy Observatory is a facility of the National Science Foundation operated under cooperative agreement by Associated Universities, Inc.
	Founded in 1956, the NRAO provides state-of-the-art radio telescope facilities for use by the international scientific community. NRAO telescopes are open to all astronomers regardless of institutional or national affiliation. Observing time on NRAO telescopes is available on a competitive basis to qualified scientists after evaluation of research proposals on the basis of scientific merit, the capability of the instruments to do the work, and the availability of the telescope during the requested time. NRAO also provides both formal and informal programs in education and public outreach for teachers, students, the general public, and the media.
	The National Science Foundation (NSF) is an independent federal agency created by Congress in 1950 "to promote the progress of science; to advance the national health, prosperity, and welfare; to secure the national defense..."
	AUI collaborates with the scientific community and research sponsors to plan, build, and operate cutting-edge facilities. We cultivate excellence, deliver value, enhance education, and engage the public.