Delivering MeerKAT+ Science via Systems Engineering

MeerKAT, a precursor to the Square Kilometre Array (SKA), marks a significant milestone in radio astronomy. Its capabilities are being further extended through the MeerKAT+ programme, delivering enhanced imaging sensitivity and resolution at centimetre wavelengths.

In this session, Dr Cristobal Bordiu, an astrophysicist and researcher at the INAF-Osservatorio Astrofisico di Catania, explored how these capabilities enable deeper exploration of complex astrophysical phenomena, including pulsar timing, mapping the Galactic centre, and the continued search for extraterrestrial signals.

Such performance is achieved through interferometry, where geographically distributed antennas operate as a single coherent instrument. This places stringent demands on system integration, requiring a disciplined systems engineering approach to align hardware performance, signal processing, and environmental constraints into a stable operational capability.

The talk examined how radio imaging requirements are realised in the physical operation of MeerKAT+ antennas, highlighting the challenges associated with coordination, control, and reliability at scale.

Dr Bordiu also unpacked the Local Monitoring and Control (LMC) system, developed by the Istituto Nazionale di Astrofisica, with SARAO Systems Engineering leading system-level integration and verification coordination. Acting as the central control locus, the LMC integrates key subsystems—including the Antenna Control Unit (ACU), Single Pixel Feed Controller (SPFC), and Power Distribution Unit (PDU)—into a coherent and responsive system.

Beyond the technical architecture, the MeerKAT+ programme highlights critical systems engineering practices, including structured issue management, interface discipline, and effective collaboration across multidisciplinary teams. These insights are directly applicable to the delivery of future large-scale scientific and engineering systems.