RISE achieves SKA Observatory approval as a test facility

RISE has developed instrument-specific processing software for testing electromagnetic emissions (EMC) from the extremely sensitive radio receivers and other electronic products being used in SKA project. The aim was to develop test methods that can traceably detect weak emissions from electrical and electronic equipment, which pollute radio astronomy observations by interfering with the exceptionally faint signals from space.  

“Becoming a SKAO-approved test facility is very important to RISE as it allows us to support different suppliers to the project to ensure they meet the requirements from SKAO. To further strengthen our partnership, we signed a collaboration agreement between SKAO and RISE. The SKAO-approved test facility status and the collaboration agreement allows us to be part of the amazing work of shaping the future for radio astronomy and gaining a better understanding of the Universe”, says Monika Fuller, Vice President of the Vehicle and Automation Department at RISE.

“We have developed a method together with Chalmers University of Technology radio observatory for testing the electromagnetic emissions for the radio receivers that will be used by the SKAO,” continues Monika Fuller. “The development of the method has been challenging due to the SKAO’s requirements regarding components’ emissions being extremely stringent, meaning there is a need to verify for very low emissions and here our researchers have managed to achieve fantastic results.”

Read the full press release here >

SKAO FACTS

• The SKAO (SKA Observatory) is an intergovernmental organisation bringing together nations across the world. Its mission is to build and operate cutting-edge radio telescopes that will transform our understanding of the Universe and deliver societal benefits through global collaboration and innovation.
• The SKAO’s Global Headquarters are in the UK, while its two telescopes are being built at radio-quiet sites in South Africa and Australia.
• The SKAO´s telescopes (SKA-Mid, comprising 197 mid-frequency antennas, and SKA-Low, comprising 131,072 low-frequency antennas) will be the two most advanced radio telescopes on Earth. Together with other state-of-the-art research facilities, they will explore the unknown frontiers of science and deepen our understanding of key processes, including the formation and evolution of galaxies, fundamental physics in extreme environments and the origins of life.
• Once in operation, the SKAO will be one global observatory operating two telescopes across three continents on behalf of its member states and partners.

Big Science Sweden FACTS

• Big Science Sweden is connecting Swedish industry, universities, and research institutes with international research organisations.
• Across the globe, large-scale research facilities are conducting ground-breaking research. Big Science Sweden serves as a bridge between Swedish industry and academia and these facilities.