Control system for small automatic telescopes (ATs)

Summary The present paper illustrates some aspects of particular significance which result from applied research in the field of small, medium-size and large telescopes, to implement a reliable technological system capable of handling in an autonomous manner remotely loaded astronomical observation program. Because of their specific applications, the automatic telescope (AT) must be highly reliable. In this case, the term reliability is intended in its widest sense, that is, as quality and continuity of service of all the component subsystems. The integration of engineering, information science, mechanics, and, of course, astrophysics expertise is of primary importance. Paper presented at the V Cosmic Physics National Conference, S. Miniato, November 27–30, 1990.