The Astronomical Telescope of the University of Stuttgart (ATUS): Development, Optimization, and Lessons Learned
arXiv:2602.16415 · doi:10.1088/1538-3873/ae477d
Abstract
ATUS, the Astronomical Telescope of the University of Stuttgart, is a fully remote-controlled 0.6 m f/8.17 Ritchey-Chrétien telescope optimized for high-cadence, high-fidelity photometry of transient sources. Observations are time-referenced with very high accuracy and precision, making it an ideal platform for time-domain astronomy and space situational awareness. Initially conceived to support instrument developments and operations of SOFIA, the Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared Astronomy, it evolved into a scientific instrument for various use cases in instrument development, astronomical research, and teaching. This paper presents an overview of its development and optimization to achieve diffraction-limited images and highly accurate pointing and tracking, even at high speeds. The findings and lessons learned are universally applicable to other telescopes that are currently at the planning stage, or where similar issues might be encountered.
arXiv comment44 pages, 30 figures, 8 tables. This is the Accepted Manuscript version of an article accepted for publication in the Publications of the Astronomical Society of the Pacific. IOP Publishing Ltd is not responsible for any errors or omissions in this version of the manuscript or any version derived from it
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