Understanding Arrays and Their Role in Converting Light into Data

[EnSlavingBlair]

Hi all,

I've been reading on how arrays (eg. EVLA) turn light from space into data, but I don't really get it. I know it has a lot to do with Fourier Transforms, but I can't find anything that gives a good and simple outline as to why they're used. And then once it's been transformed it needs to be deconvolved to get rid of the side lobes, but the order and reasons are a bit muddled in my head.

Can anyone elxplain it? I don't mind a bit of math but I'm looking for a general outline before I get bogged down in the numbers.

Thanks

 

[Drakkith]

Do you know the basics of interferometry?
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Interferometry