New algorithm to quantify terrestrial RFI in space for earth orbiting radio astronomy experiments

Source: The post is based on the article “New algorithm to quantify terrestrial RFI in space for earth orbiting radio astronomy experiments”  published in PIB on 25th July 2023.

What is the News?

Scientists at Raman Research Institute (RRI), an autonomous institute of the Department of Science and Technology, have developed an algorithm called STARFIRE  to estimate the Radio Frequency Interference(RFI) emitted by FM radio stations, WiFi networks and others.

Background:

In order to study the early Universe and its evolution, astronomers tune their radio antennas within the 40 to 200 MegaHertz (MHz) range in search of the 21-cm hydrogen line, believed to contain some of the unknown secrets about the cosmos. 

However, given their faint and weak strength, detecting these signals is extremely challenging. In addition, the fast-advancing technologies and expanding areas of human settlements have led to an increased number of sources emitting Radio Frequency Interference(RFI) constraining the efforts for recording astronomical observations on land.

What have the researchers developed to estimate this Radio Frequency Interference(RFI)?

Scientists have developed an algorithm called STARFIRE.

This algorithm can estimate the Radio Frequency Interference(RFI) emitted by FM radio stations, WiFi networks, mobile towers, radar, satellites, and communication devices.

This calculation can be used for designing and fine-tuning the antennas and other instrument components of missions like India’s Probing ReionizATion of the Universe using Signal from Hydrogen (PRATUSH). 

Note: PRATUSH is one of the several mission opportunities in space contemplated to address the growing RFI on land, to study the birth of the first stars and galaxies in the Universe using the 21-cm hydrogen line obtained from the far side of the moon.