Stray–radiation correction as applied to the Leiden/Dwingeloo survey of Hi in the Galaxy

Abstract

This article describes the stray–radiation correction that was applied to the Hi observations of the Leiden/Dwingeloo survey of Hartmann & Burton. This correction involved convolving the empirically–determined antenna pattern with the measured all–sky Hi distribution. The importance of the correction is demonstrated and practice regarding its application described. The general algorithm used here is presented. The results obtained with this algorithm are compared to those following from other methods. The 0.07 K sensitivity level of the survey depends critically on the success of the stray–radiation correction.