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NRF|SAAO Cape Town Open Night
November 23 @ 8:00 pm - 10:00 pm
The NRF|SAAO Open Nights in Cape Town take place on the second and fourth Saturday of every month.
All Open Nights will start with a presentation on topics of astronomy or related science fields. Visitors will then be given an introduction to the history of the observatory, library, museum, and the 120 year-old McClean telescope. If the weather permits, stargazing will take place with McClean and smaller telescopes.
Please email cptbookings@saao.ac.za or call +27 21 447 0025 if you have any queries regarding bookings.
Speaker: Nic Erasmus
Joined the South African Astronomical Observatory (SAAO) in 2015 and currently serves as an Instrumentation Scientist and Astronomer. His research focuses on Transient & Solar System Science, specifically main-belt and near-Earth asteroids but is also involved in astronomical instrumentation development and commissioning for various telescopes and instruments operated by the SAAO in Sutherland.
Abstract: Smart Telescopes, Fast Responses: Unlocking the Secrets of the Transient Universe.
The South African Astronomical Observatory (SAAO) is leading the charge into the future of astronomical observations with its Intelligent Observatory (IO) program. This initiative integrates cutting-edge technology with our telescopes to enable rapid, automated responses to transient events across the universe. From explosive supernovae to swiftly moving near-Earth asteroids (NEAs), the IO program ensures that we can capture fleeting moments with unparalleled efficiency and precision.
In this talk, I will introduce the IO program and discuss how it facilitates rapid follow-up observations of transients, enhancing our understanding of these dynamic phenomena. While the program supports a broad range of transient science, I will focus on its role in asteroid follow-up and characterisation, showcasing how we leverage this intelligent system to track and study NEAs, contributing to planetary defense and scientific understanding of our own Solar System.