The Astronomical Telescope of the University of Stuttgart (ATUS): Development, Optimization, and Lessons Learned

TL;DR

The paper details the development and optimization of the ATUS telescope, highlighting its high-precision photometry capabilities, lessons learned, and broad applicability to other telescope projects.

Contribution

It presents the design, optimization, and lessons learned from ATUS, a remote-controlled telescope for high-precision photometry and time-domain astronomy.

Findings

Achieved diffraction-limited images and precise tracking at high speeds.

Developed methods for high-accuracy time referencing in observations.

Provided universally applicable lessons for telescope development.

Abstract

ATUS, the Astronomical Telescope of the University of Stuttgart, is a fully remote-controlled 0.6 m f/8.17 Ritchey-Chr\'etien telescope optimized for high-cadence, high-fidelity photometry of transient sources. Observations are time-referenced with very high accuracy and precision, making it an ideal platform for time-domain astronomy and space situational awareness. Initially conceived to support instrument developments and operations of SOFIA, the Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared Astronomy, it evolved into a scientific instrument for various use cases in instrument development, astronomical research, and teaching. This paper presents an overview of its development and optimization to achieve diffraction-limited images and highly accurate pointing and tracking, even at high speeds. The findings and lessons learned are universally applicable to other telescopes that are currently at the planning stage, or where similar issues might be encountered.