The VGOS radio telescope for research in geodesy and geology, using a positioning technique called Very Long Baseline Interferometry (VLBI). This method is one of the most precise for measuring the positions of Earth's tectonic plates. It also studies the movements or positional changes of the Earth's crust that impact natural disasters such as earthquakes and tsunamis.
The VGOS system employs dual-band S-/X-band receivers operating between 2 and 14 GHz, using Very Long Baseline Interferometry (VLBI) techniques, where multiple radio telescopes observe the same object simultaneously. This allows measurements of Earth’s shape, rotation, and tectonic plate movements with millimeter-level precision. The data collected supports studies on Earth’s orientation and rotation parameters, vital for geodesy and understanding Earth dynamics.
In May 2025, NARIT officially launched Thailand’s first VGOS Radio Telescope at the National Radio Astronomy Observatory, located at the Huai Hong Khrai Royal Development Study Center, Doi Saket District, Chiang Mai. The telescope is situated on the Eurasian Plate and marks a significant step forward in Thailand’s radio astronomy research capabilities.
Construction of the second 13-meter radio telescope is currently underway at Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat, located on the Sunda Plate. Both of these facilities are being developed with the support of the Shanghai Astronomical Observatory (SHAO), People’s Republic of China. Looking ahead, a third telescope will be installed at the Princess Sirindhorn Observatory in Songkhla Province. This facility will be designed and developed by NARIT itself, based on the model of the Yebes Observatory in Spain.
In the future, all three telescopes will operate together using Very Long Baseline Interferometry (VLBI) to monitor tectonic plate movements and support research in geology, disaster management, and the development of highly precise global positioning systems. They will also be connected to the International VLBI Service for Geodesy and Astrometry (IVS), a global network of more than 80 stations across 20 countries.
