Simultaneous and Parallel Use of Small Telescopes for Astronomical Photometry

Abstract

Astronomy has largely been depending on the biggest class telescopes because of their light (photon) collecting power. However, recent technological advances in optical systems, detectors, and computers have changed the situation: it is possible to construct compact yet sophisticated and powerful personal observatories equipped with those highly advanced instruments. The main reason is of course CCD detectors’ high quantum efficiency. As a result, even the smallest telescopes can play important roles — a 10-cm telescope equipped with CCD camera can play the role of a 1-m telescope with a traditional photographic camera. However those that are bigger than 0.5-m are not always suitable for personal use because of the difficulty of self-maintenance. Here I try to elucidate a possibility of small (<0.5-m) telescope combinations, which may differ from the traditional use.