The VSOP telescope is now producing pictures .
Astronomers calibrate new telescopes with an image of a point source.
The astronomers chose that quasar because it is one of the most compact and most rapidly variable radio sources known. It is the first truly 'world telescope'. He explains that communicating with the satellite, coordinating the telescope units, and reassembling the data is an amazing achievement, and only possible through international cooperation. The key to success, Dr Jauncey says, is long-term planning and commitment. He says the Japanese space research agency, ISAS, is already planning a replacement unit for launch after 2005.