Robotic observatory for monitoring and tracking satellite objects

Abstract

A robotic observatory for monitoring and tracking satellite objects, comprising a transportable and modular structure (1) configured to house at least one robotic telescope (2) and a control system (7), characterized in that the structure (1) comprises a single, one-piece cover (3) mounted pivotally with respect to said structure (1) by means of a double lateral axis (4), said single cover (3) being configured to rotate between a closed position, in which it covers the structure (1), and an open position, in which it leaves the upper area of the structure (1) clear.

Description

Robotic observatory for monitoring and tracking satellite objects OBJECT OF THE INVENTION The object of the present invention, as its title indicates, is a robotic observatory for monitoring and tracking satellite objects. This innovation offers advantages previously unknown within current techniques. The present invention is characterized by the special functional and constructive characteristics of the elements that form part of the device, so that they all contribute to the achievement of a robotic observatory for monitoring and tracking satellite objects that overcomes the limitations of known solutions, by incorporating a unique one-piece cover, mounted tiltably on the observatory structure by means of a double lateral axis, which allows its controlled opening and closing between a total protection position and a completely clear operational position. TECHNICAL SECTOR The present invention falls within the field of observation and surveillance systems, and more specifically within the field of robotic observatories designed for the surveillance, tracking, and monitoring of satellite and astronomical objects. In particular, the invention relates to transportable and remotely operable observatories, applicable to both defense and security as well as scientific research, and designed for deployment in remote or difficult-to-access locations. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION In the state of the art, various astronomical and surveillance observatories are known, both fixed and transportable; however, many of the known solutions present structural and functional limitations, especially in transportable observatories. In particular, systems based on multiple moving covers or complex mechanisms require precise synchronization between components, increase energy consumption, and raise the risk of mechanical failures, especially in demanding or intensive use environments. Furthermore, in many known configurations, open covers create structural obstacles that limit the telescopes' field of view, preventing continuous observation of the horizon and reducing the effectiveness of surveillance and tracking of satellite objects. These limitations are especially critical in defense or early detection applications, where an unobstructed 360° view is essential. On the other hand, conventional observatories depend heavily on the coordinated operation of all their internal systems, so a failure in any of them can compromise the ability to protect sensitive equipment from adverse weather conditions. Therefore, there is a need for an improved robotic observatory, which features a simpler, more reliable and safer structure, allows for efficient opening and closing, reduces energy consumption, provides a complete view of the horizon, and guarantees automatic protection of the equipment even in unforeseen situations. With reference to the current state of the art, it should be noted that, although various designs of mobile observatories are known, the existence of any other that presents structural and constitutive technical characteristics equal or similar to those presented by the invention claimed herein is unknown. EXPLANATION OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to a robotic observatory for monitoring and tracking satellite objects, conceived for use in both defense applications and scientific research, and designed to be transportable, modular and rapidly deployable in different environments, including remote scenarios, emergency zones or conflict areas. The observatory comprises a modular structure, preferably with a container-type configuration, sized to house two or more robotic telescopes, as well as the electronic, energy and control systems necessary for their autonomous or remote operation. Characteristically, and constituting the essential element of the invention, the structure incorporates a single-piece cover, preferably made of curved sheet metal, configured to completely cover the structure when the observatory is not in operation. Unlike known solutions with multiple covers, this single cover simplifies the mechanical system and significantly improves the safety and reliability of the assembly. The unique roof is mounted on a double lateral axis, allowing it to pivot between a closed position, which fully protects the observatory's interior, and an open position, which leaves the upper part of the structure completely unobstructed. This arrangement ensures that the telescopes are always positioned above the side of the container, providing a continuous 360° view of the horizon, free from structural obstructions. The opening and closing movement of the cover is achieved by a simple rack and pinion motor mechanism, assisted by a system of lateral counterweights integrated into the cover itself. The presence of these counterweights significantly reduces the effort required for operation, allowing the cover to be operated by motor, manually, remotely, or via computer, with minimal energy consumption. An additional advantage of this configuration is that the cover can operate independently of the rest of the observatory's equipment, providing an extra level of safety. In the event of a failure of any of the internal systems or an unforeseen situation, the cover can close automatically to protect the telescopes and sensitive equipment. The observatory also includes a weather station configured for autonomous monitoring of environmental conditions. This station is designed to detect parameters such as cloud cover, risk of rain, wind, dust, and other adverse conditions. It is connected to the dome's control system so that, upon detection of a hazard, the dome closes automatically, placing the telescopes and optical systems in standby mode. Once the hazard has subsided, the system can automatically resume operations. Additionally, the observatory can incorporate an All-Sky camera, intended for continuous monitoring of the entire sky in 360º, as well as an internal surveillance camera, configured to monitor the correct functioning of the telescopes, both in the optical and infrared range, and to control personnel access to the interior of the structure. The interior of the observatory preferably has a dark-colored finish, intended to minimize reflections of stray lights, while the exterior can be configured for camouflage or concealment, adapting to the operational requirements of the environment in which it is deployed. Unless otherwise stated, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the meanings commonly understood by a person skilled in the art to which this invention pertains. Similar or equivalent procedures and materials to those described herein may be used in the practice of this invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS To complete the description being made and in order to aid in a better understanding of the characteristics of the invention, this descriptive report is accompanied, as an integral part thereof, by figures in which, for illustrative and non-limiting purposes, the following has been represented: Figure 1 is a perspective representation of the robotic observatory for monitoring and tracking satellite objects with the cover (3) closed. Figure 2 is a perspective representation of the robotic observatory for monitoring and tracking satellite objects with the cover (3) open. Figure 3 is a cross-section perspective representation of the drive mechanism (5). Figure 4 is a perspective representation of the robotic observatory for monitoring and tracking satellite objects with the cover (3) open and showing parts of the structure that can be seen from the inside. Figure 5 is a schematic representation of the control system (7) and its components. PREFERRED EMBODIMENT OF THE INVENTION In view of the figures, a preferred, though not limiting, embodiment of the invention is described below, which consists of a robotic observatory for monitoring and tracking satellite objects, intended for both defense and scientific research applications, and designed for deployment in different environments by means of a transportable and modular structure. The observatory comprises a main structure (1), preferably modular and container-like, sized to house the optical, electronic, and power equipment necessary for its autonomous or remote operation. This structure (1) defines an internal volume intended to house one or more robotic telescopes (2), as well as the associated control systems. Typically, the structure (1) is covered from above by a single, one-piece cover (3), preferably made of curved sheet metal, configured to completely cover the structure (1) when the observatory is in the closed position. This single cover (3) replaces multiple cover solutions, simplifying the observatory's mechanical architecture and improving its safety and reliability. The single cover (3) is mounted in a pivoting manner on the structure (1) by means of a double lateral axis (4), preferably arranged on both longitudinal sides of the structure. This arrangement allows the cover (3) to rotate between a closed position, in which it completely protects the interior of the observatory, and an open position, in which it leaves the upper area of ​​the structure (1) completely unobstructed. In the open position, the geometry of the unique cover (3) allows the telescopes (2) to be positioned above the lateral edge of the structure (1), providing a continuous 360° view of the horizon, without structural obstructions, which is especially advantageous for monitoring, tracking and astronomical observation tasks. The opening and closing movement of the single cover (3) is carried out by means of a drive mechanism (5) comprising at least one motor (5.1) associated with a simple rack transmission system (5.2). This system transmits the movement to the cover (3) in a controlled manner, allowing its progressive opening and closing. Associated with the single cover (3), the observatory comprises a counterweight system (6) arranged laterally and attached to the cover (3) itself. The incorporation of these counterweights (6) significantly reduces the torque required to operate the cover, allowing it to function with low energy consumption and enabling, if necessary, manual operation, remote control, or operation via a computer system. Thanks to this configuration, the unique cover (3) can operate independently of the rest of the observatory's equipment, so that in the event of a failure of the main system or an unforeseen situation, the cover can close automatically to protect the internal equipment. The observatory also comprises a control system (7) that includes at least one programmable logic controller, responsible for managing the operation of the telescopes (2), the cover mechanism (3), and the auxiliary systems. This control system (7) can be managed from a local control station (8.1) located within the structure (1) and / or from a remote control station (8.2) via wired or wireless communication means (9). Depending on the implementation, the observatory may incorporate a meteorological station (10) connected to the control system (7), configured to detect adverse environmental conditions such as cloud cover, rain, wind, dust, or other risk factors. If such conditions are detected, the control system automatically closes the single cover (3), placing the telescopes (2) in a standby position. Once the risk has passed, the system allows for automatic reopening and the resumption of operations. Additionally, the observatory may comprise an All-Sky camera (11) arranged inside the structure (1) for continuous 360° sky monitoring, as well as an internal surveillance camera (12) intended to supervise the proper functioning of the telescopes (2) and personnel access. The interior of the structure (1) preferably has a dark satin finish, intended to minimize stray light reflections, while the exterior may be configured with camouflage finishes for integration or concealment within the surroundings. Furthermore, the structure (1) may include an access door (13), preferably a sliding door, and fixing means (14) to facilitate its transport and installation using heavy machinery. Having sufficiently described the nature of the present invention, as well as the manner of putting it into practice, it is not considered necessary to make its explanation more extensive so that any expert in the field may understand its scope and the advantages that derive from it, it being noted that, within its essentiality, it may be put into practice in other modes of embodiment that differ in detail from the one indicated as an example, and which will also achieve the protection sought provided that its fundamental principle is not altered, changed or modified.

Claims

1. A robotic observatory for monitoring and tracking satellite objects, comprising a transportable and modular structure (1) configured to house at least one robotic telescope (2) and a control system (7), characterized in that the structure (1) comprises a single, one-piece cover (3) mounted pivotally with respect to said structure (1) by means of a double lateral axis (4), said single cover (3) being configured to rotate between a closed position, in which it covers the structure (1), and an open position, in which it leaves the upper area of ​​the structure (1) clear.

2. A robotic observatory according to claim 1, characterized in that the single cover (3) has a curved shape.

3. A robotic observatory according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the single cover (3) is actuated by means of a drive mechanism (5) comprising at least one motor (5).1) associated with a rack and pinion transmission system (5.2).

4. Robotic observatory according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the single cover (3) comprises a counterweight system (6) arranged laterally and integral with the cover (3).

5. Robotic observatory according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the counterweight system (6) is configured to assist the tilting movement of the single cover (3).

6. Robotic observatory according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the observatory comprises a control system (7) including a programmable logic controller, configured to manage the operation of the telescope (2) and the single cover (3).

7. Robotic observatory according to claim 6, characterized in that the control system (7) is manageable from a local control station (8).1) arranged in the structure (1) and / or from a remote control station (8.2) by means of wired or wireless communication (9).

8. Robotic observatory according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises a meteorological station (10) connected to the control system (7).

9. Robotic observatory according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the observatory comprises an All-Sky camera (11) arranged inside the structure (1).

10. Robotic observatory according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the observatory comprises at least one internal surveillance camera (12) arranged inside the structure (1).

11. Robotic observatory according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the interior of the structure (1) has a dark finish intended to minimize stray light reflections.