The SKA RFI and tropospheric site testing program

The Square Kilometre Array project will soon decide upon where this new large radio telescope will be located, on the basis of a range of criteria. Two environmental aspects are examined for maximum scientific return through measurements at candidate sites: the radio frequency interference (RFI) and tropospheric environments. High sensitivity as well as high speed measurements will make an inventory of the RFI at the core sites and at a selection of remote sites. Tropospheric phase stability will be investigated using two identical interferometer systems pointed to geostationary satellites, in a campaign lasting at least one year. A report.