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LOFAR: A new radio telescope for low frequency radio observations: Science and project status

H. Rottgering·A. G. de Bruyn·R. P. Fender·J. Kuijpers·M. P. van Haarlem·M. Johnston-Hollitt·G. K Miley
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Abstract

LOFAR, the Low Frequency Array, is a large radio telescope consisting about 100 soccer field sized antenna stations spread over a region of 400 km in diameter. It will operate in the frequency range from ~10 to 240 MHz, with a resolution at 240 MHz of better than an arcsecond. Its superb sensitivity will allow for a broad range of astrophysical studies. In this contribution we first discuss four major areas of astrophysical research in which LOFAR will undoubtedly make important contributions: reionisation, distant galaxies and AGNs, transient radio sources and cosmic rays. Subsequently, we will discuss the technical concept of the instrument and the status of the LOFAR project

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H. Rottgering, A. G. de Bruyn, R. P. Fender, J. Kuijpers, M. P. van Haarlem, M. Johnston-Hollitt, G. K Miley. 2003-07-11. LOFAR: A new radio telescope for low frequency radio observations: Science and project status. https://doi.org/10.1142/9789812704009_0007

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