Resources and Infrastructure at Entoto
The facility serves as a pivotal hub for astronomical research and satellite operations, combining cutting-edge technology and strategic location to advance our understanding of space and enhance satellite communication capabilities. With state-of-the-art telescopes and a dedicated satellite operation center, Entoto is equipped to support a wide range of scientific endeavors and technological advancements. This introduction outlines the key resources and infrastructures available at Entoto, highlighting its significance in the fields of astronomy and satellite operations.
Astronomical Facility and Instrumentation Center
- The center houses two one-meter diameter optical telescopes equipped with advanced instrumentation, including:
- Fibre-linked ÉCHelle astronomical spectrographs.
- CCD cameras for high-resolution imaging.
- An automatic weather station to monitor environmental conditions.
- An all-sky camera for comprehensive sky observations.
- A site test is currently underway at Lalibela, located 4,200 meters above sea level, to prepare for the installation of additional optical telescopes ranging from 1 to 5 meters in diameter.
Satellite Operation and Control Center
- The center features two significant antennas:
- A 5-meter antenna.
- A 7.3-meter antenna.
- These antennas are equipped with RF equipment functioning in both X and S-band frequencies. They support high-performance application servers, enabling efficient satellite communication and control.