Very-long-baseline-interferometry in geophysics, geodesy and astronomy
Abstract
The Very Long Baseline Interferometry technique (VLBI) and its applications to both geophysical and astrophysical problems are reviewed. For the last ten years, VLBI has proved to be a powerful tool in the study of the physics of radio sources. In more recent times the technique has also been used for highly precise geodetic and astrometric studies. In principle centimeter accuracies can be achieved in determinations of baselines thousands of kilometers long, as well as accuracies of several milliseconds of arc in radio source positions. Information on the range of scientific problems that can be attempted with VLBI observations, as well as on current VLBI instrumentation in Europe and on prospects for its development is provided. In particular the use of a geostationary orbit satellite as a wide-bandwidth data link between outlying radio telescopes and a central data processing center is discussed.
- Publication:
-
ESA Special Publication
- Pub Date:
- April 1978
- Bibcode:
- 1978ESASP.137..329S
- Keywords:
-
- Geodesy;
- Geophysics;
- Radio Astronomy;
- Very Long Base Interferometry;
- Communication Satellites;
- European Space Programs;
- International Cooperation;
- Radio Sources (Astronomy);
- Astronomy