# Software correlator for Radioastron mission

## TL;DR

This paper presents the design, features, and performance of the ASC software FX correlator used in the Radioastron space-ground VLBI mission, enabling high-quality, near real-time data processing for space radio telescope observations.

## Contribution

It introduces the ASC correlator's architecture and processing modes, tailored for Radioastron space-ground VLBI, with demonstrated successful operation over five years.

## Key findings

- Correlator operates close to real-time.
- High-quality fringe search without significant amplitude loss.
- Effective handling of space-ground VLBI data processing.

## Abstract

In this paper we discuss the characteristics and operation of Astro Space Center (ASC) software FX correlator that is an important component of space-ground interferometer for Radioastron project. This project performs joint observations of compact radio sources using 10 meter space radio telescope (SRT) together with ground radio telescopes at 92, 18, 6 and 1.3 cm wavelengths. In this paper we describe the main features of space-ground VLBI data processing of Radioastron project using ASC correlator. Quality of implemented fringe search procedure provides positive results without significant losses in correlated amplitude. ASC Correlator has a computational power close to real time operation. The correlator has a number of processing modes: "Continuum", "Spectral Line", "Pulsars", "Giant Pulses","Coherent". Special attention is paid to peculiarities of Radioastron space-ground VLBI data processing. The algorithms of time delay and delay rate calculation are also discussed, which is a matter of principle for data correlation of space-ground interferometers. During 5 years of Radioastron space radio telescope (SRT) successful operation, ASC correlator showed high potential of satisfying steady growing needs of current and future ground and space VLBI science. Results of ASC software correlator operation are demonstrated.