The contribution of Canada to the VSOP mission

Abstract

Abstract The Canadian contribution to the VSOP Space VLBI mission is based on the S2 recording system, a correlation centre, and a data analysis and archive centre. The S2 record/playback terminals are a low cost and reliable means for recording VLBI data and are presently distributed worldwide at 17 observatories involved in the VSOP mission. The Canadian S2 correlator is a lag-based correlator, designed specifically to handle Space VLBI signal processing. Fringe de-rotation and delay compensation are station-based, and the correlator's 24576 lag channels can be distributed in a variety of ways to accommodate both continuum and spectral line observations. Unique design features include a station-based zoom filter for high spectral resolution, multiple pulsar gates, and a fast dump capability (1 kHz), principally used for pulsar observations. Subsequent data analysis and archiving are carried out to provide feed-back to the mission on data quality.