In terms of recent successes, it is a matter of infinity and beyond for Nelson Mandela University’s Centre for Broadband Communication (CBC) which is making waves in global astronomy with its cutting-edge optical fibre technology.

The fibre was recently installed in the Hydrogen Epoch of Reionisation Array (HERA) Radio Telescope Project at the Square Kilometer Array (SKA) site in Klerefontein. The collaboration was led by CBC director Dr David Waswa, with the team successfully developing and installing custom-designed optical fibre delay lines in six HERA radio telescopes, ensuring precise signal synchronisation, an essential requirement for capturing data from deep space.

 

Dr Waswa said the Karoo desert presented a formidable challenge on the HERA’s initial fibre optic set-ups, with extreme environmental conditions affecting  durability and performance. In response, as part of Dr Victor Agbakoba’s postdoctoral research project, with the help of Dr James Jena, the CBC engineered a compact, customisable high-precision solution, tailored to withstand the harsh climate while meeting HERA’s stringent technical specifications. By combining advanced optical fibre technology with 3D printing, the team designed custom fibre delay lines with a protective casing to shield the delay lines from environmental wear and tear. 

 

“This innovation underscores SA’s expertise in telecommunications and sensing technologies,” Dr Waswa said.

“Our contributions to HERA are vital in addressing timing and signal alignment challenges, ensuring data accuracy as the project explores the origins of the universe.” HERA aims to observe the redshifted hydrogen power spectrum, offering insights into the Epoch of Reionisation — the cosmic era when the first stars and galaxies formed.

 

The project is a collaboration between SA, the US and the UK. “The CBC’s involvement highlights Mandela University’s growing influence in international scientific research. “With the project, conducted in partnership with the South African Radio Astronomy Observatory), reinforcing the country’s position as a key player in global astronomy. “This milestone demonstrates our ability to develop world-class optical fibre solutions and positions CBC as a leader in broadband communication technology.”

Dr Waswa said as HERA continued to expand, the CBC would continue to push the boundaries of innovation. “The work is not only advancing astronomy but opening doors to further breakthrough's in telecommunications and scientific exploration.”

 

 

The Herald