Methanol Maser Emission: Strength and Effects on Earth

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on the observation of 6.67GHz methanol maser emissions for a final year project in radio astronomy. The student seeks to understand the strength of the methanol signal reaching Earth, noting that peak flux density for methanol masers typically ranges from 200 to 5000 Jy. They inquire about the relationship between this flux density measured in Jansky and the gain of the methanol signal expressed in decibels (dB). The conversation highlights the challenge of finding conversion factors or useful information connecting these two measurements. The student is looking for guidance on how to relate these values to troubleshoot their downconverter system.
smithy
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Hi

I'm an MPhys Physics with Astro student, conducting my final year project in the field of radio astronomy (well, it's more like electronics at the moment - trying to fix a downconverter, but anyway...)

My question: I'm interested in observing the 6.67GHz methanol maser emission. For a part of my project I think I need to know the "strength" of the methanol signal reaching Earth. (I need to be able to compare the gain of signal strength to the noise figure of my downconverter - I think this is where the problems may lie with my system!)

I have tried looking through various journals and websites. From what I can see, on average, the peak flux density for methanol masers varies between 200-5000 Jy.

Admittedly, my electronics knowledge is poor, but I was wondering and have been trying to figure out, if this value is related in anyway?

Many thanks for any help or advice anyone can give!
Smithy
 
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Welcome to PF, smithy! :smile:

You ask: "I was wondering and have been trying to figure out, if this value is related in anyway?"

I'm afraid I don't understand the question; related to (or with) what (I assume "this value" is "the peak flux density for methanol masers").

Do you know what a jansky is?
 
1 Jy = 1x10^(-26) W m^(-2) s

As far as I'm aware, Jansky is a measure of energy radiation, named after the founder of radio astronomy.

Yes, I'm just trying to see if anyone knows of a connection between peak flux density (in Jy) to the gain of the methanol signal (in dB) ? I can't seem to find any useful information on methanol signal strength anywhere (except given in Jy, but then I can't work out/find out any conversion factors).

Thanks again!
 

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