A high-speed data acquisition system to measure telescope response to earthquake-induced ground motion

Michael Sheehan; Christopher Carter

doi:10.1117/12.857886

5 August 2010 A high-speed data acquisition system to measure telescope response to earthquake-induced ground motion

Michael Sheehan, Christopher Carter

Proceedings Volume 7738, Modeling, Systems Engineering, and Project Management for Astronomy IV; 77381P (2010) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.857886
Event: SPIE Astronomical Telescopes + Instrumentation, 2010, San Diego, California, United States

Abstract

The Gemini Observatory operates two telescopes, both in geographical areas that pose a significant risk of damage due to earthquakes. To assess the potential of damage to telescope systems due to earthquake induced ground motion, a system of accelerometers, data acquisition hardware and data analysis software is being installed at each telescope. Information from these sensors will be used to evaluate the response at various locations on the telescope including the primary and secondary mirror support structures, instruments, telescope mount, pier and adjacent ground. A detailed discussion of the design of this sensor system is presented. Real time applications and potential future upgrades are also discussed, including provisions for automatic subsystem parking and shutdown, laser shuttering, alarms and future structural modifications designed to reduce the dynamic response of the telescope and its subsystems to earthquake induced ground motion.

Citation Download Citation

Michael Sheehan and Christopher Carter "A high-speed data acquisition system to measure telescope response to earthquake-induced ground motion", Proc. SPIE 7738, Modeling, Systems Engineering, and Project Management for Astronomy IV, 77381P (5 August 2010); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.857886

ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE

INSTITUTIONAL
Select your institution to access the SPIE Digital Library.

SELECT YOUR INSTITUTION

PERSONAL
Sign in with your SPIE account to access your personal subscriptions or to use specific features such as save to my library, sign up for alerts, save searches, etc.

PERSONAL SIGN IN

No SPIE Account? Create one

PURCHASE THIS CONTENT

SUBSCRIBE TO DIGITAL LIBRARY

50 downloads per 1-year subscription

Members: $195

Non-members: $335 ADD TO CART

25 downloads per 1 - year subscription

Members: $145

Non-members: $250 ADD TO CART

PURCHASE SINGLE ARTICLE

Includes PDF, HTML & Video, when available