The eXperimental Development Model (XDM) is a 15-m diameter radio telescope antenna prototype for the Karoo Array Telescope (KAT). It is located at the Hartebeesthoek Radio Astronomy Observatory (HartRAO). It is being used to test technology leading up to development of the Square Kilometer Array (SKA).
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2007 01 22 - Installing the last segment of the XDM dish mould at the Hartebeesthoek Radio Astronomy Observatory
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2007 02 14 Measurng the mould shape by photogrammetry.
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2007 02 22 Adjusting the mould.
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2007 02 22 Measuring the mould by theodolite.
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Spraying primer onto releasing agent that has been applied to the mould. The primer will become the surface of the parabolic dish.
Find out more about the SKA and KAT at www.ska.ac.za