This paper presents “Twinkle”, an operational Shack Hartmann Image Motion Monitor (SHIMM) system for 24-hour monitoring and profiling of atmospheric turbulence in strong and weak conditions. Twinkle serves as a pivotal tool in assessing atmospheric distortions that significantly affect ground-based optical observations. We present current and future deployment of Twinkle, outlining the challenges and solutions encountered during installation at various observatory sites. This includes a discussion on the integration of Twinkle with existing telescope infrastructure, highlighting the technical adaptations and innovations implemented for seamless operation. In the operations segment, we focus on the real-time performance and reliability of Twinkle in diverse atmospheric conditions, during day and night, and in strong turbulence conditions. We provide data and analysis on the instrument’s sensitivity and accuracy in detecting and quantifying atmospheric turbulence. The final part of the paper explores the utilisation of Twinkle data in enhancing observational capabilities. We discuss how the data gathered by the SHIMM-based instrument can be used at a range of astronomical sites and in other application.
The advent of increasing satellite traffic poses a significant challenge to ground-based astronomical observations, often leading to image contamination due to satellite streaks. Addressing this issue, we introduce 'Blink', an innovative software system designed to predict satellite passes that intersect a telescope's field of view and subsequently activate a fast shutter to prevent image streaking. This paper outlines the development, capabilities, and potential applications of Blink in the realm of observational astronomy. Blink employs sophisticated algorithms to forecast satellite trajectories and their timing relative to a telescope's observational schedule. Upon predicting an imminent satellite pass, the software sends a real-time trigger to a fast-acting shutter system. The software can be augmented by integration with a network of horizon cameras. These cameras serve a dual purpose – they enhance the accuracy of satellite pass predictions and detect unexpected objects, such as space debris, which are not catalogued in standard databases. This real-time monitoring capability significantly improves the reliability of the system.
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