The Future of Radio Astronomy: Options for Dealing with Human Generated Interference

Abstract

Radio astronomy provides a unique window on the universe, allowing us to study: non-thermal processes (galactic nuclei, quasars, pulsars) at the highest angular resolution using VLBI, with low opacity. It is the most interesting wave band for SETI searches. To date it has yielded 3 Nobel prizes (microwave background, pulsars, gravitational radiation). There are both exciting possibilities and substantial challenges for radio astronomy to remain at the cutting edge over the next 3 decades. New instruments like ALMA and the SKA will open up new science if the challenge of dealing human generated interference can be met. We summarise some of the issues and technological developments that will be essential to the future success of radio astronomy.