Plans for geo-VLBI in parallel to astro-VLBI observations at the VIRAC, Latvia

Ivars Schmelds, Ventspils University College Normuds Jekabsons, Ventspils University College Valdis Avotins, Ventspils University College Janis Kaminskis, Riga Technical University

We have valuable historical heritage of radio telescopes (RT). Ventspils International Radio Astronomy centre; VIRAC http://virac.venta.lv/en has been founded in 1994 on base of former military site, contained two parabolic antennas with diameter 32 (latitude 57.553° N, longitude 21.855°E) and 16 meters. At this moment we have practice and some experience in astronomical VLBI observations and some international projects. In future we have plans to participate in geodetic VLBI observations and contribute to Global Geodetic Observation System (GGOS) network in cooperation with Nordic countries. At the Irbene/RT station we have permanent GNSS station, running now more than for 10 years and absolute gravity station. Our place of RT station location is placed in region of active movement of Fenno-Scandinavia land uplift, like till 2 mm/year.