Earth-space Very Long Baseline Interferometric system RadioAstron as a global observational facility: lessons learned and highlights of science results
Abstract
The Earth-space Very Long Baseline Interferometer (VLBI) system RadioAstron involved an orbital radio telescope onboard the Spektr-R spacecraft and a network of Earth-based radio telescopes. The mission was carried out by the Astro Space Center of the Lebedev Physical Institute of the Russian Academy of Sciences and the Lavochkin Scientific and Production Association under a contract with the State Space Corporation Roscosmos, in collaboration with partner organisations in Russia and other countries. It represents a facility with natural synergy between Space-borne and Earth-based astronomical facilities in scientific, technological and operational domains. In this presentation we will highlight science results in studying Active Galactic nuclei (AGN), galactic and extragalactic maser sources and interstellar medium. A particular emphasis will be made on the results in detecting brightness temperatures in AGN that cannot be achieved in principle by Earth-based observing systems only. We will also briefly summarise some lessons learned in the course of implementation of this global astronomical facility and charter major directions of further development of multi-element space-borne radio astronomy facilities.
- Publication:
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43rd COSPAR Scientific Assembly. Held 28 January - 4 February
- Pub Date:
- January 2021
- Bibcode:
- 2021cosp...43E1523E