Parameters of the Free Core Nutation from VLBI Data

TL;DR

This study analyzes VLBI data to determine the variability of the Free Core Nutation's amplitude and period, revealing significant fluctuations and discrepancies across different methods and datasets.

Contribution

It provides new insights into the variability of FCN parameters using spectral and wavelet analysis of VLBI data, highlighting discrepancies among different studies.

Findings

FCN amplitude varies between 0.1 and 0.3 mas

FCN period varies between 415 and 490 days

Discrepancies exist among different datasets and methods

Abstract

Several VLBI EOP series were investigated with goal of determination of parameters of the Free Core Nutation (FCN). Both the amplitude and period of the FCN were studied using spectral and wavelet analysis. Our analysis reveals a variability of both the amplitude (known also from other investigations) and the period (or phase) of the FCN nutation. The FCN amplitude varies in the range about 0.1--0.3 mas, and the FCN period -- in the range about 415--490 solar days. The latter may be also explained by changes in the FCN phase. Comparison of time variations of the FCN period and amplitude obtained by different authors and methods shows substantial discrepancies at the edges of the period of observations.