The Antarctic Astronomical Observations Intelligent Support Equipment “Dome A” Site-Testing Observatory: Electric Power Generation and Control Systems

Abstract

AAOISE, the Antarctic Astronomical Observations Intelligent Support Equipment, is an autonomous control equipment serving for energy support and environment thermal preservation, which is used for astronomical science observations in the Antarctic “Dome A”. It was deployed to “Dome A” and had an unattended run until now. The AAOISE stressed on the ways to adapt to adverse circumstances of “Dome A” and to have as little influence on the environment as possible. Its shape and structure are fully qualified for transportation and thermal insulation demands. The power generation and control systems are designed to provide continuous power and heat. Its communication system can support high-reliability data transmission and communications. It offers a possibility for developing “Dome A” scientific activities and remote monitoring of the running situation of the science instruments. This paper presents a detailed description of the power generation, power control, thermal management, instrument interface, and communications systems for AAOISE.

Keywords

• astronomical observatory
• ControlNet field bus
• Dome A
• intelligent support equipment
• robotics
• site testing