Abstract

Mathematical challenges in radio interferometric imaging

Tim Cornwell
National Radio Astronomical Observatory

Radio interferometry is a mature, well understood field that has historically benefited from

of the application of mathematical analysis, coupled with adequate computing power. However,

a new generation of telescopes strain both analysis and computing. The problem arises from

the expansion of the field of view to a regime where a simple two-dimensional Fourier transform

relationship between measured coherence and unknown sky brightness fails. I will review

existing techniques for overcoming these limitations and indicate areas where more sophisticated

mathematical analysis is needed.