The Carlsberg Automatic Meridian Circle and the plans for Anglo-Danish collaboration

Abstract

AbstractThe Brorfelde meridian circle has been automated. This incorporates a telescope setting system, a new type of photoelectric slit micrometer, improved photoelectric circle reading system, met. data reading system with rain detector and photoelectric collimation micrometer all controlled by an HP 2100 minicomputer. The setting system can do the setting within 10 sees to an accuracy of ±2.”. The circle reading system with an accuracy of ±.”04 is more reliable than the original system. These systems have been tested and used for data collection for determination of diam. cor. This includes 1080 readings which are performed automatically in about 9 hours. The remaining equipment has been built and is being tested during the year 1978. After final tests it is planned to move the telescope to La Palma in collaboration with RGO and IAC. It is hoped to erect the instrument at La Palma at the end of 1980. At least 100 000 o bs. per year with an m. s.e. of.”20 are expected. In ten years time proper motions for at least 200 000 stars with an accuracy of .”014 will be available besides the fundamental work which will include observations of all traditional solar system objects and also day time observations.