A Radio Telescope for Advanced Astronomy Laboratory A radio telescope antenna is being equipped with a receiver capable of detecting the 21-cm emission from galactic neutral hydrogen. A existing 10 foot paraboloid antenna formerly used for satellite communication at l.3-cm is used for the antenna. Using a modern receiver and low noise preamplifier, this antenna is able to detect and map the 21-cm line emission from the Milky Way disc to trace the rotation curve of the galaxy, and to measure the overall mass and distribution of the interstellar gas. This telescope is incorporated into undergraduate laboratories to give students experience with radio spectroscopy and microwave equipment and techniques. In addition, a new course, Advanced Astronomy Laboratory, uses the telescope to give students the opportunity to do observational projects related to senior level astrophysics. The radio telescope provides the tools needed for such projects.
