PyDome
Python Software for Astronomical Observatory Dome Control

• Dome control through Digital Loggers web relay switch
• Adaptable to any dome with relay control of rotation and optionally the shutters
• Rotation encoding with RFID tags using Phidgets RFID tag reader
• Used with XmTel and XmCCD provides automatic dome rotation to follow the pointing of a telescope
• All-in-one standalone version
• Scriptable

PyDome provides for local or remote operation of an astronomical telescope dome. While specific to the hardware we use for the Shared Skies programs at Moore and Mt. Kent Observatories, PyDome may be readily adapted to other hardware. It includes code to calculate the requisite dome azimuth given the celestial coordinates of the telescope, for German equatorial, fork equatorial, and altazimuth telescope mounts. Support for the Phidgets RFID tag reader is included, which permits simple retrofitting of absolute dome rotation encoding with the addition of RFID tags on the dome itself. The current version supports a hardwired dual shutter for the Sirius dome. An RF-coupled autonomous shutter controller is under development that will allow safe operation under uncertain weather conditions.

• Latest version 1.0 updated July 23, 2012
• Hardware installation