A space-based decametric wavelength radio telescope concept

Abstract

This paper reports a design study for a space-based decametric wavelength telescope. While not a new concept, this design study focused on many of the operational aspects that would be required for an actual mission. This design optimized the number of spacecraft to insure good visibility of approx. 80% of the radio galaxies-the primary science target for the mission. A 5,000 km lunar orbit was selected to guarantee minimal gravitational perturbations from Earth and lower radio interference. Optimal schemes for data downlink, spacecraft ranging, and power consumption were identified. An optimal mission duration of 1 year was chosen based on science goals, payload complexity, and other factors. Finally, preliminary simulations showing image reconstruction were conducted to confirm viability of the mission. This work is intended to show the viability and science benefits of conducting multi-spacecraft networked radio astronomy missions in the next few years.

Exoplanets and Radio Astronomy Beyond Earth

“…There are considerable differences between 100-antenna arrays fixed to the (approximately) twodimensional surface of the Earth and the six-dimensional phase space of a spacecraft constellation. I illustrate these differences by considering two likely technical challenges: operations and data rates, both of which were addressed partially in the 32-spacecraft RELIC concept [1].…”

A roadmap towards a space-based radio telescope for ultra-low frequency radio astronomy

“…The most recent USA initiative, RELIC (Belov et al, 2018) aims to deploy a multi-spacecraft constellation forming a decametric wavelength synthesized telescope on a selenocentric orbit. The science case of RELIC is presented extensively in about ten papers cited by (Belov et al, 2018). The authors conclude that the proposed concept is viable for implementation on a rather short timescale of about five years.…”

“…A comprehensive review of early studies is given by Kassim and Weiler (1990), Basart et al (1997) and references therein. The most recent USA initiative, RELIC (Belov et al, 2018) aims to deploy a multi-spacecraft constellation forming a decametric wavelength synthesized telescope on a selenocentric orbit. The science case of RELIC is presented extensively in about ten papers cited by (Belov et al, 2018).…”

Space VLBI: from first ideas to operational missions

“…It is expected that the first demonstration of ULW VLBI will be attempted in 2019 in the framework of the Chinese-Dutch experiment NCLE aboard the Chinese Lunar mission Chang'E-4 (Jia et al, 2018). Several other ULW VLBI initiatives and projects are under development with the aim of becoming operational in the coming decade (Boonstra et al (2016); Belov et al (2018); Bentum et al (2019) and references therein).…”