The radio detection of neutrinos has been piloted in several experiments and RNO-G draws heavily on previous experiences to build the first uniform, production-style system that allows the deployment of 35 stations within a short time-frame.

The emphasis is put on low-power, reliable electronics that provide high sensistity triggers and hands-off operation.

The RNO-G detector consists of autonomous stations that comprise 24 channels each. By deploying both shallow and deep antennas, RNO-G combines information from different channels that will allow a high fidelity reconstruction of detected neutrinos.

The construction of RNO-G started in 2021 with the installation of central computing and communication infrastructure at Summit Camp, as well as the installation of three RNO-G stations. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the travel restrictions and parts shortages, the installation is proceeding at a slower pace than originally anticipated. In the summer of 2022 another 7 stations were installed, including test stations with wind-turbines to allow for year-round operations. In summer of 2024, the next installation campaign will focus on drilling and installing 10 stations worth of strings.

A potential relocation of Summit Camp (due to drifting) may alter future station positions.

All RNO-G stations have a number by which they are identified in software. But they also carry the name of an animal that can be found in Greenland, using the name in the local language. The first installed stations were Nanoq (Polar Bear), Amaroq (Polar Wolf), Avinngaq (Lemming).