Project area/S
- Engineering
Project Details
Interferometry and “aperture synthesis” techniques enable synchronized telescope arrays to achieve resolutions many orders of magnitude better than is possible with a single telescope.
The Astrophotonics group (www.icrar.org/astrophotonics) develop technologies to synchronize optical and radio telescope arrays spread over vast distances, enabling astronomers to study the universe in unprecedented detail.
The specific project will be tailored to the skills and interests of the student, but could include:
– Investigating technologies to precisely synchronize the next generation Very Large Array radio telescope,
– Programming FPGA modules for control and analysis of high-precision laser systems, or
– Investigating techniques for very long baseline optical interferometry, including both classical and quantum optics technologies.
The student will have the opportunity to work with telescope engineers from both Australian and around the world as well as with quantum physicists from the ARC Centre of Excellence for Engineered Quantum Systems.
Student Attributes
Academic Background
Undergraduate experimental physics and optics experience preferred. Electrical engineering topics (including FPGA programming) an advantage.
Computing Skills
Python, C, or Linux experience preferred.
Experience with a hardware description language (e.g. Verilog) an advantage for FPGA projects.
Training Requirement
Optics laboratory practical skills and safety procedures. Programming in Python and/or other languages.
Project Timeline
- Week 1 Inductions and project introduction
- Week 2 Initial Presentation
- Week 3 Set up optics in laboratory for prototype testing
- Week 4 Begin developing code and control systems
- Week 5 Development and testing of code and control systems
- Week 6 Initial tests of code on lab prototype
- Week 7 Refinement and testing of code and prototype
- Week 8 Obtain final results and determine remaining work and next steps
- Week 9 Final Presentation
- Week 10 Final Report
