Low-Frequency Radio Astronomy in Korea

ObsCAL contributes to the development of low-frequency radio astronomy in Korea through complementary domestic and international research activities, in collaboration with the broader SKA-Korea community. Our work spans characterization of radio-frequency interference (RFI) and candidate observing sites, preliminary system design and validation, antenna and receiver testing, digital signal processing, interferometric methods, and the training of students and early-career researchers.

KAIST-ATNF Joint Research Center for Low-frequency VLBI

We are developing a low-frequency VLBI pathfinder that will connect a new Korean station with the Low-frequency Australian Megametre Baseline Demonstrator Array (LAMBDA) in Australia. Through the KAIST–ATNF Joint Research Centre, the project aims to demonstrate intercontinental interferometry and develop the technical foundations for future SKA-Low VLBI participation.

Our Contributions

ObsCAL leads the Korean-side development of the VLBI station, including site and RFI characterization, antenna-array installation, correlation, and calibration. We also coordinate Korea–Australia system integration and science-verification activities in close collaboration with CSIRO ATNF, while involving students throughout the full process from hardware development to interferometric data analysis.

We also collaborate with the Taiwan-based BURSTT project on complementary low-frequency array development and science.

Acknowledgment. The "KAIST-ATNF Joint Research Center for Low-frequency VLBI" project was supported by the National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF) grant funded by the Korea government (MSIT) (RS-2025-16302968).