Considerations for the optimal radio astronomy site featuring the square kilometre array as an example

Abstract

A range of factors determine whether a potential site to locate a radio astronomy observatory is optimal for the intended research, and for the duration of the projected lifetime of the observatory. On the science side the most prominent factors are the interference environment, the behaviour of the ionosphere, that of the troposphere and suitability of the topology. Factors related to the economy of the chosen site are just as important, relating to the cost of infrastructure and supply of power. For new large-scale observatories power-demand is substantial and renewable sources in remote areas important. In addition, there are secondary factors that influence the viability of the sites. An overview is presented taking the SKA as an example for siting an internationally scoped radio observatory.