SKA-VLBI Key Science Programmes

TL;DR

This paper discusses the integration of SKA-VLBI into SKA's Key Science Projects, outlining the concept and potential engagement strategies for the VLBI community.

Contribution

It provides an overview of SKA-VLBI and explores how it can be incorporated into SKA's Key Science Programs, preparing the community for future proposal calls.

Findings

SKA-VLBI involves phased-up SKA components in VLBI networks.

Potential strategies for engaging in SKA Key Science Projects.

Outline of SKA-VLBI's role in future SKA science objectives.

Abstract

A significant fraction of the observing time with the two phase-I SKA telescopes (SKA1-LOW and SKA1-MID) will be spent on Key Science Projects led by member country scientists. The various SKA Science Working Groups, including the VLBI Focus Group are in the process of defining KSPs that are aligned with the High Priority Science Objectives of the SKA. At the moment it is not clear how the special observing mode of SKA-VLBI - when the SKA1 components are phased-up and included in VLBI networks - could be incorporated in KSPs. The VLBI community needs to be prepared by the time the KSP proposal calls are expected (mid-2020s). In this paper we outline the basic concept of SKA-VLBI, and some possibilities for us to engage in SKA KSPs.