Simulated Space VLBI Experiment using the Tidbinbilla 11-m DSN Tracking Station and SURFSAT and Simulated Satellites

We describe a space VLBI experiment involving an earth-orbiting satellite (SURF-SAT) and simulated satellites, a space VLBI ground tracking station, an array of ground radio telescopes, and a space VLBI correlator. The purpose of this experiment was to provide as complete as possible an end-to-end simulation of space VLBI in preparation for the first space VLBI mission, VSOP, and in particular to test the most critical aspect of space VLBI, viz. the ability to generate a stable and accurate frequency standard (clock) for the orbiting VLBI element.