A review of cryogenic low-noise amplifier for receivers of radio astronomy
Abstract
Radio astronomy relies on highly sensitive receivers to capture faint signals from distant celestial bodies. This review delves into the design requirements, technical challenges, current status, and future development trends of cryogenic low-noise amplifiers (LNA) in radio astronomy receivers. The review traces the development of radio astronomy, highlighting the key role LNA plays in enhancing the observational capabilities of telescopes. It provides an in-depth analysis of key technical indicators in LNA design, including noise temperature, operating frequency, bandwidth, direct current power consumption, and return loss, and discusses the interrelationships and balance strategies among these parameters. At the same time, the review looks forward to the design requirements of the next generation of radio telescopes, discussing potential ways to meet these needs through technological innovation. Finally, the review summarizes the latest research findings on cryogenic LNA and makes predictions about future technological evolution, emphasizing that LNA with ultra-low noise, ultra-wide bandwidth, low power consumption, and high integration will become research hotspots, indicating that these technological breakthroughs will provide stronger support for humanity to deeply understand and explore the mysteries of the universe.
