Automated search for supernova explosions

We describe the design and construction of a new search for supernovae, based on the use of current computer and detector technology. This search uses a computer‐controlled telescope and charge coupled device (CCD) detector to collect images of hundreds of galaxies per night of observation, and a de...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Review of scientific instruments 1988-07, Vol.59 (7), p.1021-1030
Main Authors: Kare, Jordin T., Burns, M. Shane, Crawford, Frank S., Friedman, Peter G., Muller, Richard A., Pennypacker, Carlton R., Perlmutter, Saul, Treffers, Richard, Williams, Roger
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Astronomical and space-research instrumentation
Astronomy
Earth, ocean, space
Exact sciences and technology
Fundamental astronomy and astrophysics. Instrumentation, techniques, and astronomical observations
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Summary:We describe the design and construction of a new search for supernovae, based on the use of current computer and detector technology. This search uses a computer‐controlled telescope and charge coupled device (CCD) detector to collect images of hundreds of galaxies per night of observation, and a dedicated minicomputer to process these images in real time. The search system has a detection threshold of 17th visual magnitude, discovered its first supernova on 18 May 1986, and at this writing has found three additional supernovae. The system currently is being upgraded with an improved detector and a more powerful computer. At full speed and sensitivity, the system will be able to search 2500 galaxies per night with a limiting magnitude of 19 or fainter.
ISSN:0034-6748
1089-7623
DOI:10.1063/1.1139773