SARAO Hartebeesthoek Johannesburg Observatory

SARAO’s Hartebeesthoek Radio Astronomy Observatory (HartRAO) has a long history in astronomic, astrometric and geodetic VLBI observations and associated studies. Its geographic location at the southern end of the African continent ensures that it plays a unique role in global VLBI networks and programs.

HartRAO is a fundamental geodetic and astrometric station, using the collocation of radio telescopes, GNSS reference receivers, satellite laser rangers and other instruments to provide critical inputs into the International Celestial Reference Frame (ICRF) and Global Geodetic Reference Frame (GGRF). A 12m VGOS station is currently being commissioned at HartRAO, adding to the existing 26-m and 15-m telescopes. A new geodetic site is being established near Matjiesfontein in the Western Cape province. This will be collocated with a NASA LEGS facility being established in collaboration with the South African National Space Agency (SANSA). SARAO has established a VLBI program that will drive future developments in VLBI capabilities and instrumentation.

Telescopes, Instruments, Programmes and Projects

26m and 15m telescopes at Hartebeesthoek

26m and 15m telescopes at Hartebeesthoek

Hartebeesthoek is located 65 kilometers north-west of Johannesburg, just within the provincial boundary of Gauteng. The nearest town, Krugersdorp, is...

Last Updated on August 12, 2024

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