Abstract This paper examines options for orbit configurations for a space interferometer. In contrast to previously presented concepts for space very long baseline interferometry, we propose a combination of regular and retrograde near-Earth circular orbits in order to achieve a faster filling of coverage. With the rapid relative motion of the telescopes, it will be possible to quickly obtain high quality images of supermassive black holes. As a result of such an approach, it will be possible for the first time to conduct high quality studies of the supermassive black hole close surroundings in dynamics.
Highlights A new configuration for the space interferometer is proposed. This configuration uses near-Earth regular and retrograde orbits. Calculated orbits are stable more than 10 years. The supermassive black hole can be imaged within 20 h. Synthetic simulations show observations of black holes are possible in dynamics.
On optimal geometry for space interferometers
Acta Astronautica ; 212 ; 361-369
2023-08-10
9 pages
Article (Journal)
Electronic Resource
English
70F15 , 85A99 , 97M50 , Celestial mechanics , Orbit design , Methods , Numerical , Space vehicles , Interferometry
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