What is the Correlator?

How does the supercomputer that translates to binary code all the information received by ALMA antennas operate? In this episode, Lorenzo Martínez-Conde, an engineer who has been working at ALMA Observatory for 15 years, explains how the brain of the system behind this radio telescope operates and how each piece of information we have about the Cosmos is obtained through a complicated mathematical process that synthesizes the observations made.

Let's journey through the two essential correlators of ALMA's Little Universe.

What is ALMA Little Universe?

Journey into the 'Little Universe of ALMA' and uncover the wonders of our cosmic origins. In bite-sized episodes ranging from 3 to 6 minutes, delve into the intricacies of the ALMA Observatory, stationed in the heart of the Atacama Desert. Discover galaxies shrouded in stardust, the first-ever image of a black hole, and even a simplified form of sugar, all made possible by 66 colossal antennas that peer into the Universe with unparalleled depth. Embark on this enlightening journey and learn how ALMA connects us to the vast expanse of the Cosmos.

This podcast was produced by Paige Cromley during her internship at ALMA from Princeton University.