Tiny Device, Huge Discoveries!

Imagine a device no larger than a credit card unlocking the secrets of the universe! Introducing PRATUSH (Probing ReionizATion of the Universe using Signal from Hydrogen), an innovative digital radio receiver designed to capture whispers from the Cosmic Dawn—the era when the universe's first stars and galaxies emerged. This groundbreaking technology promises to unravel the enigmas of our cosmic origins.

The Challenge: Hearing a Whisper in a Roaring Stadium

The Cosmic Dawn is shrouded in mystery as astronomers struggle to observe this pivotal period accurately. The signals PRATUSH aims to detect are incredibly faint, buried beneath overwhelming interference millions of times stronger. On Earth, this interference makes it nearly impossible to hear these historical echoes. But PRATUSH takes to the moon, targeting the far side—an ideal location free from the disruptive noise of our planet.

Building a Radio-Quiet Laboratory on the Moon

Engineered by a team from the Raman Research Institute (RRI), PRATUSH is set to be the first lunar payload of its kind. Their laboratory model has already been tested and published in *Experimental Astronomy*, showcasing its ability to detect these elusive cosmological signals. Equipped with sophisticated antennas and advanced processors, PRATUSH translates cosmic whispers into clear data.

A Technology Revolution: Data Processing in Space!

At the heart of PRATUSH is a powerful chip known as a Field Programmable Gate Array. This advanced processor converts raw radio signals into detailed fingerprints that describe the universe's brightness across various frequencies. Despite its compact size, the single-board computer (SBC) orchestrates everything: it manages the antenna, receiver, and processing unit, while also performing vital calibrations and storing high-speed data streams.

Efficiency Meets Precision: The Future of Space Exploration!

Girish BS, a senior scientist at RRI, highlights the elegance of SBCs, which balance size with robust performance, akin to miniaturized desktop computers. With innovative software upgrades and next-gen space-grade tech, the PRATUSH team is poised for unprecedented breakthroughs. This minimalist, efficient approach signifies a leap forward in capturing cosmic data and promises rich insights into our universe's early moments.

The Cosmic Frontier Awaits!

As the PRATUSH mission prepares for its lunar journey, astronomers are on the edge of their seats. The potential to uncover the universe's origin stories may soon become a reality! With this tiny device, we stand on the brink of a new era in astronomy, where the Cosmic Dawn might finally reveal its secrets.