Space VLBI

Space VLBI enables high angular resolution and high dynamic range imaging through an extension of ground-based VLBI. The TDRSS space VLBI experiments in the 1980s were followed by the first space VLBI imaging mission, VSOP, in the 1990s. The new century holds the promise of the VSOP-2 and ARISE missions, which aim for more sensitive, higher angular resolution and higher observing frequency capabilities. These missions will enable AGNs to be viewed much more clearly and will make broader science areas, including lower brightness sources, accessible. It is noted that in all space VLBI missions, international collaboration in global sense plays an important role.