VLBI Space Observatory Program
radio astronomy program, Japan
Also known as: HALCA, Highly Advanced Laboratory for Communication and Astronomy, VSOP(Show More)
Quick Summary
The VLBI Space Observatory Program (VSOP), also known as HALCA, was a Japanese radio astronomy program launched in 1997. It utilized an 8-meter radio telescope in Earth orbit, working in conjunction with ground-based telescopes like the Very Long Baseline Array (VLBA). This setup created an interferometer with baselines up to 33,000 km, enabling unprecedented resolution for observing celestial objects. The program ended in 2003 when the satellite lost its precise pointing capability.12
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