Re: [ATM] Radio astronomy sorry if OT

["ks1u" <ks1u@prodigy.net>]

David:
     Hello.  I am somewhat familiar with the Radio Jove program and have 
been a Ham Radio Operator since 1966.  The dish you have is set up for VHF, 
UHF and higher frequencies.  Although it is possible to use it with a 
shortened helically wound dipole,  it would be better to use a different 
antenna.  The Radio Jove receiver operates near 20 MHz.  To find the the 
total length of any half wave dipole antenna, just divide 468 by the 
frequency in MHz.  For example 468/20= 23.4.  Therefore, each length of your 
dipole is about 11.7 feet in length.  You can also use a quarter wavelength 
vertical (a single 11.7 ft wire) or even shorten the dipole or vertical by 
winding them on a wooden or plastic rod.   Having said all this, you can 
just as easily use a random length of wire and an antenna tuner between the 
antenna and receiver.  You should be able to hear Solar and jovian noise by 
just taking a piece of wire and either hanging it out your window or even 
hanging it up in your room.  Please think about keeping your radio and 
listening with whatever your parents allow you to use.  If your radio is 
working properly you should be able to hear the signals as well as see them 
by downloading some spectrum monitoring software, and just using a random 
length of wire for your antenna.
     Your parents may not allow you to currently erect and antenna, but 
perhaps if you sick with this project for awhile they may acquiesce.  When I 
was 15, my mother wasn't crazy about antennas, but eventually I had multiple 
130 foot antennas in the yard.  Good luck, and keep your hand built 
receiver.

George
 


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