Telescopes are large machines which are operated in the dark. There are therefore risks associated with their operation.
The Robotic Telescope is designed for remote or autonomous observing, so that an observer should not generally be present in the dome.
However, there are occasions when it is necessary for an observer to be present in the dome.
Identifying and minimizing risks, and observing clear operating procedures help to ensure that a) staff and b) equipment can operate safely.
Only trained observers may operate the telescope.
When observing alone in the dome, the outside gate should be locked. The dome door should ''never'' be locked from the inside. '''
The observer should check that the dome telephone is operational at the start of every observing session. The extension number is ??? To call into the dome from outside the observatory: 028 3751 2???
The observer must carry a personal torch at all times.
A multi-function (red, white focused, white diffuse) head torch is available for the observers.
A red led torch can be found on the telescope mount control panel attached to the north side of the pier.
A torch for emergency use is located to the south side of the entrance doorway.
It is advisable to activate night vision mode on TheSkySix.
An observer working alone must inform an appropriate member of staff (stk, csj, ...). Send an email or SMS to stk, csj, or other designated person.
Members of the public are not allowed to enter the dome.
In case of emergency: call 999
If an observer is concerned about the activities of members of the public in the Observatory grounds, they should remove themselves to a place of safety and call the police on 084 5600 XXXX.
Water. Observers should check that the floor is clear of patches of water. Water patches may arise from excessive condensation, or from rainwater leaking into the dome. Water poses a risk to electrical equipment, a risk of electrocution, and a risk of slipping. Excess water should be reported immediately, and observing should be postponed until the water has been removed.
Obstruction. Observers should check that the floor and telescope are clear of obstruction. Loose items of equipment and cables pose a risk of tripping. Loose electricity mains cables pose a risk of electrocution. Loose cables may indicate that equipment has been removed for repair or is under test. If in doubt, the telescope should not be used.
Collision. Astronomical observations should be carried out in darkness. The observer should allow his eyes to become fully dark adapted before moving around the dome. He may be advised to wear a protective hat in case of collisions with the telescope; however the Armagh sky is rarely dark enough for this normally to be a problem. Dome lights should always be used whenever making a major change to equipment.
Mirror covers. It may be necessary to use a step to remove and replace telescope covers safely at night. It is imperative that any movable equipment in the dome cannot possibly be left in a situation where it can interfere with the motion of the telescope.
Ice. The dome is prone to freezing during the night in winter. The padlock for the gate and the lock on the dome itself can become frozen making entering and leaving the dome difficult. Observers are recommended to keep the keys and padlock to the dome on their person when not in use to keep them from freezing. Ice and snow brought into the dome will form a slipping hazard when melted. Observers must clean their shoes before entering the dome.
Automation. In robotic mode, the telescope and dome may move unexpectedly. The space around the telescope must be free of obstruction. Normally, there should be nobody in the dome when the telescope is operating robotically.
AOP Health and Safety Policies: (not available) see: http://star.arm.ac.uk/FOI/
AOP Policy on Working Alone:
AOP Robotic Telescope Risk Assessment: to be carried out
For Information: Calver Dome Risk Assessment: Robinson Dome Risk Assessment: