The ability to allow the students to participate in real-time astronomical observations in a group setting provides them with a hands on opportunity in astronomy that is seldom available as part of the traditional curriculum and is usually only achievable in subjects such as biology. Their teachers and parents have often cited this as one of the most significant life experiences provided to the students during the school year. Without fail, it is during these calls that the next event at a facility is scheduled. A flip mirror finder diverts the image from a viewing eyepiece to the Astrovid 2000 video camera. The video signal is then sent via coaxial cable to the remote location, which can be up to 300' away.
Signal strength is maintained by means of a video distribution amplifier.
The video signal is then displayed either on a TV set, large screen TV, or projected onto a screen using a video projection system. During any observing session the telescope operator has the option to record the objects viewed on a SVHS deck. Individual frames from the videotape can also be digitized and stored on a computer hard drive. In 1999 we added an Image Intensifying Eyepiece. Most people know this technology as a night vision scope as used by the military.