Extensions to the Fleurs Synthesis Telescope

Abstract

Four years ago a Table was shown in which the sensitivity of the Fleurs Synthesis Telescope (F.S.T.) was compared with that of three other radiotelescopes of similar resolving power (Christiansen 1972). At that time the high sensitivities quoted for the F.S.T., like those for all but one of the comparison telescopes were only theoretical since only the eastwest array of the F.S.T. was in operation and low noise r.f. amplifiers had not been installed. Now the telescope is in operation with characteristics close to those given in the Table quoted. Sources are mapped separately with the eastwest and north-south arrays and the two maps are combined. The combination produces maps with a resolution that is approximately the same in declination and right ascension. This is unique amongst existing rotational synthesis telescopes. Some of these maps will be shown in papers now in preparation.