Atacama Large Millimeter Array
Atacama Large Millimeter Array
ALMA, the Atacama Large Millimeter/Submillimeter Array, will be a single research instrument composed of up to 80 high-precision antennas and which is due to begin its full-scale operation in 2012. Located on the Chajnantor plain of the Chilean Andes in the District of San Pedro de Atacama, 5000 m above sea level, ALMA is expected to operate for half a century. It will enable transformational research into the physics of the cold Universe, regions that are optically dark but shine brightly in the millimeter portion of the electromagnetic spectrum. ALMA is expected to provide astronomers and scientists a new window on celestial origins by probing the first stars and galaxies, as well as the formation of planets.
ALMA will operate at wavelengths of 0.3 to 9.6 millimeters, where the Earth’s atmosphere above a high, dry site, is largely transparent. The data gathered will provide astronomers with unprecedented sensitivity and resolution. The 12 m antennas will have reconfigurable baselines ranging from 15 m to 18 km. Resolutions as fine as 0.005" will be achieved at the highest frequencies, a factor of ten better than the Hubble Space Telescope. ALMA’s expected longevity means it is likely to be also used by young generations, including those who are currently elementary and junior high school students.
Cryoconnect was involved on four other major projects: the Cryostats, the Band 3 Receivers, the NRAO Band 6 Receivers and the NOVA Band 9 Receivers.
For more information on the Atacama Large Millimeter Array, visit www.almaobservatory.org