Multi-purpose robotic observatory for near Earth object detection

Resumen

In this paper, a new astronomical observatory designed to study meteors and artificial satellites is described. This multipurpose robotic observatory (hereinafter, Robotic Observatory) is constituted by a small autonomous observatory, a telescope and an all sky camera (both interchangeable), a mete-orological station and a computer. The observatory is formed by a metal box of square section of 1.2 meters and 1.3 meters high, with a tilted roof divided into two equal parts, which can open and close the roof completely so that all-sky images can be taken. The opening/closing control of the observatory and the activation of the telescope and camera all sky to capture images is regulated through the PC and the meteorological station, which incorporates a Sky Quality Meter (sky brightness), an Anemometer (wind speed) and a Hygrometer (relative humidity). All instruments that are part of this observatory have been programmed through the control computer so that autonomous captures of meteor images and their spectra are made every night and can be stored on the hard drives.