Instrumentation

Dome of the observatory

Our observatory dome is a ScopeDome 3M. It is fully remote-capable and has a diameter of approximately three meters. It offers ample space for larger telescopes and the necessary equipment, such as our planned double telescope. For on-site observations, the dome can accommodate up to three people. To protect the sensitive optics and measurement technology from disruptive stray light, the observatory is located on the southern grounds of the botanical garden. Two mechanically decoupled foundations prevent vibrations caused by wind or the dome's rotation from being transmitted to the telescope mount. This allows for extremely long exposure times with maximum precision.

Telescope and mount

Our main system includes a Skywatcher EQ8 equatorial mount and an Esprit 100ED telescope.This apochromatic refractor has a focal length of 550 mm and provides fast, color-pure optics. It quickly captures high-resolution images of even the faintest deep-sky objects, such as galaxies and nebulae. The computer-controlled mount can carry up to 50 kg of equipment, leaving plenty of room to spare. To expand its applications to include planets and spectroscopy, we plan to mount a 10" RC reflecting telescope with a long focal length parallel to the Esprit.

Astrophotography

Astrophotography is a key tool in modern astronomy and astrophysics. In addition to providing insights into astronomical objects, it requires an in-depth understanding of scientific image processing techniques and algorithms to extract fine details from data and minimize image noise.

For this purpose, a cooled ZWO ASI 2600MC-Pro is available and allows for single exposures of up to half an hour. Superimposing numerous images achieves total exposure times of several hours, resulting in exceptionally detailed, low-noise images.

Spektroscopy

Spectroscopy enables us to study a wide range of properties of astronomical objects that are inaccessible to humans. With our existing fiber spectrometer, we can analyze the atmospheres of Jupiter and Saturn.

There are plans to expand this capability with a high-resolution spectrometer. With this new instrument, we will be able to examine stellar spectra, identify binary star systems, and use Doppler analysis to determine the rotation periods of Jupiter and Saturn.