Two 0.5-m robotic telescopes for Timau National Observatory in eastern Indonesia

Abstract

Timau National Observatory will be the new Indonesia’s astronomical observatory in East Nusa Tenggara, planned for 2020. Besides the main 3.8-m optical telescope, it will host two 0.5-m “off-the-shelf” f/3.8 and f/8.0 telescopes, equipped with two CCD cameras and two filter wheels. The system will be controlled with a robotic system for autonomous operation. In this paper, we present the system description and current development progress, as well as the future plan for the facility, including its two potential scientific studies: near-Earth objects and exoplanetary transits.

A Complete Affordable Control System for Remote Astronomical Observing Accompanied by an Intelligent Controller

“…Remote observation embeds the aspects of traditional observation such as checking the weather, opening dome enclosure, pointing the telescope, setting exposure time, and storing data; however, it is performed over the internet with the priority of protecting the telescope equipment [4]. Furthermore, it reduces the downtime of the observatory, minimizes the telescope setting up stress [5], decreases the operation cost, and the number of personnel required [6]. Moreover, It plays a more critical role in international projects in astronomical scientific research [7], and it is considered an easy tool for astronomy education at different levels [8].…”

Observational Technique Development and Instruments Status in Observatorium Universitas Ahmad Dahlan

“…The dome control and weather monitoring system are the important part of the observatory preparation. It was followed by the software tested in order to ensure the integration between the hardware and software running smoothly [4]. Seeing characterization at UAD Observatory has been carried out using the Differential Image Motion Monitor method.…”