Optics for the new Band 2+3 (67-116 GHz) of ALMA

Although ALMA, the largest radio astronomical facility ever constructed, has just started operation, a key of its long-term success will be to maintain a continuous upgrading program. The three organizations leading the project have already made calls of proposals to determine the new instrumentation that ALMA will host in the next 10 years. The Millimeter-wave Laboratory (MWL) is part of an international consortium including ESO, U. of Manchester, RAL (UK), INAF (Italy), and NAOJ (Japan), to design a prototype receiver covering the ultra-broad frequency range of ALMA Band 2+3 (67-116 GHz). Technology based on low-noise semiconductors amplifiers that will replace the superconducting mixers currently operating in ALMA. During the phase A of the project the WML has produced an optical system able to cover the entire Band. Now on phase B, the components produced in our lab are being integrated into the prototype receiver cartridge at INAF in Italy. Results will be used to propose a system upgrade to the ALMA development program.

More Info: An ultra-broadband optical system for ALMA Band 2+3.pdf