Results of 74 & 330 MHz VLA Observations of the Perseus Cluster with Application to Cosmological Interferometric Arrays.
Abstract
Low frequency interferometers currently under construction to detect signals from the Epoch of Reionization (such as LOFAR, PAPER, LWA, and MWA) will also be well suited for investigations of foreground structures, like galaxy clusters and their associated radio emission. In preparation for the survey work that will be done with these arrays, we have undertaken a project to image multi-epoch, multi-configuration VLA data of the Perseus cluster (Abell 426) at 74 MHz and 330 MHz. Our goals are (a) to create wide-field images (up to 10 degrees across) of the cluster and central radio source 3C 84, (b) to take a census of the radio galaxies in the cluster, (c) to search for transients, and (d) to create a spectral index map of the cluster radio emission. We present the findings of these investigations and discuss how they may inform our understanding of physics of the intracluster environment. We also discuss the applicability and efficacy of new techniques designed for use with the upcoming low-frequency interferometers to improve the dynamic range and field of view of these images, with an eye to understanding how to use and improve these techniques before their deployment in the next generation of interferometers probing the Epoch of Reionization and low-frequency radio sky.
- Publication:
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American Astronomical Society Meeting Abstracts #214
- Pub Date:
- May 2009
- Bibcode:
- 2009AAS...21441501H