QHY42 carries out near-earth asteroid orbit and occultation observation

2018 / 11 / 05

The goal of the Northolt Branch Observatories is to gather astrometric observations of Near Earth asteroids and other small solar system objects (minor planets, asteroids and comets) and submit regular measurements to the Minor Planet Center. The aim is to obtain follow up observations on objects so that their orbits can be better defined. They are educational partners with NEOShield-2, and work closely with Asteroid Day and The PACA Project.

Their main focus is to track 1st-opposition asteroids and NEOCP (Near-Earth Object Confirmation Page) objects. The high sensitivity of the QHY42 is perfect for this, despite the heavy light pollution here in London. It also allows them to observe asteroid occultations using very short exposures.
NEO Confirmation Page object ZU22D25. Mag +19.2. Data acquisition: QHY42

(156) Xanthippe occults star in Aquila. Data acquisition: QHY42

Guy Wells from the observatory says："The 'Ultra High Sensitivity' of the QHY42 is great for the astrometric work that we do here at the observatory. 95% peak QE is great, as is the low read noise  1.7e-. It allows us to observe fainter objects in a shorter period of time. The sensor is large, so we can cover a wider region of the sky, and fast moving asteroids can be tracked longer. The result is that our productivity has increased."

（QE of QHY42)

QHY42 uses the Gsense400 Scientific CMOS sensor with extraordinary 95% peak QE, 79% UV QE and very good NIR response, plus extremely low read noise of 1.7e-. This camera is ideal for astronomical and biological science research.
Guy Wells also says:"QHYCCD have been very helpful addressing our needs.  In our previous experiences with QHYCCD, they produce high quality cameras and the QHY42 is certainly no exception, and has indeed exceeded our expectations. We highly recommend it".
For more information about QHY42,please visit:https://www.qhyccd.com/index.php?m=content&c=index&a=show&catid=138&id=47