  A second generation near-term space VLBI mission, VSOP-2, is being planned
for a launch in 2010 or soon after. The scientific objectives are very high
angular resolution imaging of astrophysically exotic regions, including the
cores, jets, and accretion disks of active galactic nuclei (AGN), water maser
emissions, micro-quasars, coronae of young stellar objects, etc. A highest
angular resolution of about 40 microarcseconds is achieved in the 43 GHz band.
Engineering developments are in progress for the deployable antenna, antenna
pointing, high data rate transmission, cryogenic receivers, accurate orbit
determination, etc., to realize this mission. International collaboration will
be as important as it has been for VSOP.
