Did you know?
It takes 3 to 5 years to build a traditional observatory and start an astronomy program.
Many traditional observatories are extremely unreliable and/or partially functional. By some estimates, 70% of on-campus observatories are inoperative or not in use. The remaining 30% are partially inoperative or underutilized.
Traditional observatories are very expensive to design and build and require costly infrastructure. The campus observatory is located on a well lighted campus where the seeing conditions are not on par with the equipment purchased.
What is IRO?
1. We build and assemble complete observatory systems. One month before being deployed to a remote site, we run a complete systems check with our clients to insure their satisfaction. During this period the client will be working with our outreach education coordinator.
2. We provide a completely automated observatory which requires no onsite presence. Current “automatic” observatories demand an on-site human presence.
4. IRO is deployed as a complete system at a remote site and allows for relocation should local conditions change. IRO also can be transported back to our facilities for an overhaul and technological upgrade.
5. Ironwood Remote Observatories provides interactive training and educational programs.
6. A standard design that will allow for quick maintenance using modular construction.
7. The IRO structure is guaranteed for one year and we will monitor the observatory and other vendors equipment. For more warranty information please contact us.
