Computer control of the Haystack antenna

The 120-foot diameter Haystack antenna operates at X-band and is used for satellite communications, radio astronomy, and radar astronomy. Haystack is used to study stars, planets, the sun, the moon, and earth satellites. In order to point the antenna to within 1/10 beamwidth (22 seconds of arc) and to provide flexible control and data processing for diverse users, a digital computer is tightly integrated into the control system. The parameters of an experiment and computer control are arranged via simple operator discourse through a keyboard/printer. The computer system can simultaneously direct the antenna, process receiver signal data, drive convenient operator displays, and permit operator discourse. Thus, processed signal data can be observed in real time, and experiment modifications rapidly implemented. The computer control system is in full operation.