- I. Physics Institute, University of Cologne, Zülpicher Str. 77, 50937 Cologne
- I. Physics Institute, University of Cologne, Zülpicher Str. 77, 50937 Cologne
- Argelander-Institute for Astronomy, Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms Universität Bonn, Auf dem Hügel 71, 53121 Bonn
- I. Physics Institute, University of Cologne, Zülpicher Str. 77, 50937 Cologne
The observatory software issues commands for pointing FYST to astronomical targets and for executing complex scanning patterns. It applies the telescope’s pointing model to ensure accurate alignment with the target positions provided by the instruments’ software. An important subsystem is the scheduler, which dynamically selects the most suitable observation based on prevailing conditions such as time, weather, and atmospheric transparency. The housekeeping system complements this by continuously recording environmental parameters and telescope state variables, including meteorological data and temperature sensor readings. If environmental conditions require it, the observatory software autonomously brings the telescope into a safe state to protect the system. The software also interfaces with the CCAT Data Center: it interacts with the central Observation Database and prepares observational data on-site for efficient transfer to the data center. Our team is developing these subsystems in close collaboration with other CCAT consortium members.