VSOP-2 project is a next generation Space-VLBI project approved in Institute of Space and Astronautical Science
(ISAS) of Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA). The nominal launch of the VSOP-2 spacecraft, ASTRO-G, is
planed in FY2012 by a HIIA rocket as the 7th astronomy satellite in ISAS/JAXA. ASTRO-G satellite will employ a
9.23-m off-axis deployable reflector antenna (LDR) with a surface accuracy of 0.4 mm rms and cryogenically cooled
receivers at 22, and 43 GHz and passively cooled receivers at 8 GHz in dual-polarization. A major axis of the orbit is
35,000 km, which will yield an angular resolution of 38 micro-arcseconds achievable at 43 GHz. Then VSOP-2 can
observe innermost regions of AGN jets and astronomical masers at 10 times higher angular resolution compared to the
previous Space-VLBI, VSOP(-1). These are ideal laboratories to experience physical phenomena in extreme conditions,
which cannot be made in any laboratories on the earth. A phase-referencing capability of ASTRO-G satellite makes
dramatic improvement of sensitivity and astrometric measurements possible. Basic design for the mechanical and
thermal parts of ASTRO-G itself is on going. The radio telescope including the LDR is in EM phase. We would present
the overview of VSOP-2 project.
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