Data Processing

The primary data reduction package for the VLA is the CASA (Common Astronomy Software Applications) package, which is also used for ALMA.  See http://casa.nrao.edu for more information on the latest release.

It is possible to reduce VLA data taken in all correlator modes that are offered for general observing using CASA.  More complex correlator set-ups are generally better handled by CASA, and advanced imaging algorithms are available in CASA.  The VLA calibration pipeline uses CASA.

The Astronomical Image Processing System (AIPS) can reduce all observations made with simple correlator set-ups (e.g., identical spw bandwidths and channel widths throughout).  AIPS is currently required for the reduction and analysis of phased-array VLA observations for VLBI and low-band observations (P-band, 230-470 MHz). NRAO will continue to support AIPS for the foreseeable future, at least until VLBI functionality and the full data path for frequencies below 500 MHz have been incorporated into CASA.  See http://www.aips.nrao.edu for more details.

Connect with NRAO

The National Radio Astronomy Observatory and Green Bank Observatory are facilities of the U.S. National Science Foundation operated under cooperative agreement by Associated Universities, Inc.

Founded in 1956, the NRAO provides state-of-the-art radio telescope facilities for use by the international scientific community. NRAO telescopes are open to all astronomers regardless of institutional or national affiliation. Observing time on NRAO telescopes is available on a competitive basis to qualified scientists after evaluation of research proposals on the basis of scientific merit, the capability of the instruments to do the work, and the availability of the telescope during the requested time. NRAO also provides both formal and informal programs in education and public outreach for teachers, students, the general public, and the media.

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