W.N. CHRISTIANSEN AND THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE SOLAR GRATING ARRAY

Abstract

By 1950 the C.S.I.R.O's Division of Radiophysics was emerging as a leader in solar radio astronomy. Early observations at radio frequencies were hampered by a lack of angular resolution. In seeking a method to produce regular high-resolution observations W.N. Christiansen devised the solar grating array. This unique instrument was constructed on the banks of the Potts Hill water supply reservoir in suburban Sydney and operated from 1951 to 1957. This paper discusses the inspiration for the design of the solar grating array, its physical characteristics and the contribution made to international solar radio astronomy through the observational programs carried out at Potts Hill.