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This project is designed to allow remote operation of a research grade astronomical telescope through the use of the internet and a web browser. One important aspect of the design of AST@RHO is to allow the remote user to experience as much of the "look and feel" of telescope observing as possible. Thus a camera in the dome provides a view of the telescope (except when an image is being taken) and a low light level CCD camera provides a view of the night sky (including clouds). The remote user sees a screen very much like that presented at a major telescope where telescope position and operating parameters are presented and pointing commands are accepted.
While a number of remote controlled telescopes are in use today, AST@RHO is one of few which is controlled by a standard web browser interface rather than a specialized client program which must be installed on the user’s computer. Upon remote command, the computer system moves the AST@RHO telescope to selected coordinates in the sky, rotates the dome so that the slit opening does not obscure the view, and operates the CCD camera. In addition, the system will monitor weather conditions and close the dome as appropriate to avoid exposing the telescope to rain and high winds. The system allows viewing of the images as they are obtained as well as giving access to selected archived images. AST@RHO will allow UF undergraduate and graduate students to participate in the operation of a remotely controlled telescope. In addition, AST@RHO will provide an opportunity for cooperation between UF and college, middle school, and secondary school science classes around the state and the world. We have been contacted by educational groups in California, Hawaii, Europe, the Far East, and Russia who are also interested in cooperation on a global network of telescope for classroom instruction. Amateur astronomers will also have an opportunity to access the telescope images and carry out research projects. It is expected that full operation will begin in the fall semester of 2005.
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23-Jun-2004 7:44 PM