A next generation upgraded observing platform for the automated Birmingham Solar Oscillations Network (BiSON)

TL;DR

This paper introduces a cost-effective, upgraded observation platform for the Birmingham Solar Oscillations Network (BiSON), enhancing solar observation capabilities with modern off-the-shelf components for improved solar cycle monitoring.

Contribution

Development of a next-generation, compact, and inexpensive observation platform for BiSON using off-the-shelf components to facilitate solar oscillation observations.

Findings

Prototype platform successfully assembled and tested.

Reduced footprint enables installation on existing rooftops.

Cost-effective design supports long-term solar monitoring.

Abstract

The Birmingham Solar Oscillations Network (BiSON) is a collection of ground-based automated telescopes observing oscillations of the Sun. The network has been operating since the early 1990s. We present development work on a prototype next generation observation platform, BiSON:NG, based almost entirely on inexpensive off-the-shelf components, and where the footprint is reduced to a size that can be inexpensively installed on the roof of an existing building. Continuous development is essential in ensuring that automated networks such as BiSON are well placed to observe the next solar cycle and beyond.