A concept of the second generation Space VLBI mission Original Research Article

A second generation Space VLBI mission will differ from its precursors essentially in two major characteristics: (i) up to two orders of magnitude higher sensitivity and (ii) a broader frequency coverage with an emphasis on the frequency range of 5 – 90 GHz. This will require a 25–30-m antenna with a RMS surface accuracy of at most 0.2 mm. I present a concept of the mission which can meet these requirements using an in-orbit assembly and tests of the radio telescope on the low intermediate orbit near a manned base (e.g. the International Space Station) and a post-assembly maneuver into a higher operational orbit. This concept might help to considerably decrease the overall cost of the mission by sharing technology and logistical support with other users of the orbital base.