Homemade Cosmic Microwave Background detector

In summary, it would be very difficult to detect a small increase in noise from tuning to the CMB frequency.
  • #1
PedroLencastre
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Hi Guys,

I studied physics for my bachelor but still I am not a super expert, although I am still working closely to physics (but not so much astronomy).

I was wondering if it would be possible to build a radio, or some other devise (any ideas?) that could be tuned at the frequency where the Cosmic Microwave Background (CMB) is at its maximum. That would, in principle lead to a small bump in the noise heard, right? Or is it so subtel that, even in place with low external noise it would not be percievable?

The CMB peak is at a wavelength of 1.87 mm. The usual radio FM wave length is around 3 meters.

Any ideas or suggestions would be useful.
 
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  • #3
The CMB was first discovered by engineers at Bell Labs with a "home made" device.
 
  • #4
PedroLencastre said:
I was wondering if it would be possible to build a radio, or some other devise (any ideas?) that could be tuned at the frequency where the Cosmic Microwave Background (CMB) is at its maximum. That would, in principle lead to a small bump in the noise heard, right? Or is it so subtel that, even in place with low external noise it would not be percievable?

The CMB peak is at a wavelength of 1.87 mm. The usual radio FM wave length is around 3 meters.

Any ideas or suggestions would be useful.

would be VERY difficult without really specialist equip

1.87mm = 160 GHz ( round figs)
compared to FM broadcast
3m = 100MHz

I have used/built gear up to 24 GHz and that is difficult
some of my fellow radio operators have built gear up to 48 and 76 GHz, and that is EXTREMELY difficult
160 GHz is another whole new ball game again

so without a BIG dish antenna, serious test gear and lots of expert help, the short answer would be no
The other thing I haven't googled yet is if 160 GHz even penetrates the atmosphere and can be received at ground level
of if it can only be received from outside the Earth's atmosphere ... ie. an orbiting satellite observatory ??

Dave
 
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  • #5
mathman said:
The CMB was first discovered by engineers at Bell Labs with a "home made" device.
True, but it is not a small piece of equipment:
images.jpeg
 
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  • #6
mathman said:
The CMB was first discovered by engineers at Bell Labs with a "home made" device.

and note where they worked and what they were
There weren't the avg joe blogs Dave
 

1. What is a Homemade Cosmic Microwave Background Detector?

A Homemade Cosmic Microwave Background (CMB) Detector is a device that is built to detect and measure the cosmic microwave background radiation, which is the leftover radiation from the Big Bang. It is typically constructed by scientists or amateur enthusiasts using simple materials and equipment.

2. How does a Homemade CMB Detector work?

A Homemade CMB Detector works by detecting the faint microwave radiation emitted from all directions in the universe. The detector consists of a sensitive antenna that picks up the microwaves and converts them into electrical signals. These signals are then amplified, filtered, and measured to determine the temperature of the CMB radiation.

3. What materials are needed to build a Homemade CMB Detector?

The materials needed to build a Homemade CMB Detector can vary, but some common components include a microwave antenna, a low-noise amplifier, a power supply, and a temperature sensor. Other materials may include copper wire, aluminum foil, and a computer for data analysis.

4. Can a Homemade CMB Detector provide accurate measurements?

Yes, a well-constructed Homemade CMB Detector can provide accurate measurements of the cosmic microwave background radiation. However, it may not be as precise as a professionally built detector, and the results may need to be validated by other methods. Additionally, the accuracy of the measurements may depend on the skill and experience of the person building the detector.

5. What are the benefits of building a Homemade CMB Detector?

Building a Homemade CMB Detector can be a fun and educational experience for scientists and enthusiasts alike. It also allows for a more hands-on approach to understanding and studying the cosmic microwave background radiation. Additionally, it can be a cost-effective way for individuals or small groups to contribute to scientific research and potentially make new discoveries in the field of cosmology.

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