Simulations of Array Configurations for the Square Kilometre Array (SKA)
The Square Kilometre Array (SKA) is a new generation radio telescope for the next decades, working at metre to centimetre wavelengths. The SKA will be operational at the same time than other new optical, X-ray and Gamma-ray telescopes. It is of extreme importance that the SKA becomes competitive and complementary to those instruments. An extensive study of technologies and possible configurations involved is needed to ensure the SKA will reach the design specifications. To compare imaging capabilities between different SKA configurations or between the SKA and other instruments, we have implemented figures of merit based on several characteristics of these instruments. In this work we are p…
Multi-beam capabilities for high precision astrometry at low frequencies using VLBI
We are carrying out a simulation study to characterise the advantages of VLBI with multiple beams, which will be a feature of the next generation of instruments. We will focus on VLBI astrometric measurements at lower frequencies (1.4 GHz and below). For our simulations, we have selected a network consisting of ASKAP, the Australian SKA precursor, plus existing Australian antennas from the LBA (Long Baseline Array) and the new antenna in New Zealand (figure 1a). We have used different models to represent the ionospheric turbulences and frequencies. The preliminary results show an improvement of an order of magnitude in the astrometric precision achieved using multiple calibrators with angul…