| Name: Prasad Neelam |
| Affiliation: Physical Reserach Laboratory |
| Conference ID: ASI2026_202 |
| Title: From Concept to Commissioning: Development of a Robotic DIMM for the Mount Abu Observatory |
| Abstract Type: Poster |
| Abstract Category: Facilities, Technologies and Data science |
| Author(s) and Co-Author(s) with Affiliation: Neelam J S S V Prasad(Physical Research Laboratory, Ahmedabad-380009, India), Kevikumar Lad(Physical Research Laboratory, Ahmedabad-380009, India), Jithendran Nikitha K(Physical Research Laboratory, Ahmedabad-380009, India), Abhijit Chakraborty(Physical Research Laboratory, Ahmedabad-380009, India) |
| Abstract: Atmospheric turbulence plays a crucial role in limiting the performance of ground-based astronomical observations by inducing refractive index fluctuations that result in image distortion and blurring. Accurate and continuous characterization of these effects is essential for site evaluation and observatory operations. The Differential Image Motion Monitor (DIMM) is a well-established technique for quantifying atmospheric seeing by measuring the relative motion of stellar images formed through different sub-apertures of a telescope.
In this work, we present the end-to-end development of a fully robotic DIMM system designed and implemented at the Physical Research Laboratory for deployment at the Mount Abu Observatory in Rajasthan. The presentation covers the complete lifecycle of the instrument, beginning with the conceptual design and optical layout, followed by the development of mechanical, electronic, and control systems, and culminating in system integration, automation, and commissioning at the observatory site. Key design considerations for unattended operation, reliability, and long-term monitoring are discussed, along with initial performance results.
This robotic DIMM provides a robust platform for continuous atmospheric seeing measurements at Mount Abu, serving as an important tool for supporting current and future astronomical instrumentation at the site. |
