OPTICS allows precise tracking of various space objects like stars, satellites and space debris objects as well as image recording. Even though it has initially been optimised for telescopes manufactured by ASA Astrosysteme GmbH, the software can be easily adapted for telescopes of other manufacturers as well. Up to 8 optical chains may be controlled simultaneously. All images will be time tagged with the highest precision possible (depending on your hardware setup). If the camera does not have a timing module integrated, OPTICS can control various event timers for time tagging the images with the necessary accuracy for your application.
For achieving the highest level of tracking accuracy, as it is required for laser applications (satellite laser ranging, laser communication and laser quantum cryptography) or space surveillance tasks, all hardware components are controlled by Linux daemons. The communication between the GUI and the daemons is based on a TCP/IP interface with well documented API. While the daemons should be preferably run on a Linux system with low latency kernel installed, the GUI can be installed on all major platforms (Windows, Mac OS X and various Linux distributions).
Optionally, OPTICS may be extended with the SSORA and SSTA add-on modules. These add-on modules allow you to expand your observatory into a robotic observation station. You can easily scan the sky for unknown objects every clear night and automatically generate a list of unidentified objects.
Please contact us for an offer. We can also consult for and develop bespoke solutions tailored to your requirements.
