1. THEMIS Prototype Imager [ initial field testing ]

3. Prototype Station Configuration Starlight Xpress MX716 w/all-sky optics Linux Red Hat 9 w/MX716 driver Image interval 5 sec; 1-sec exposures Autonomous operation using NORSTAR, MIRACLE imaging code (1996 to present) Web server provides real-time access Network time protocol for accurate timing

4. THEMIS Prototype Camera

5. Proto-camera initial tests Athabasca Observatory 12 January 2003 Quarter Moon Image interval 5 s. 1-s exposure time Images from digital SLR also shown. 30-sec exposures

6. Movie: January 12, 2003 doubleaurora2.mov

7. Real-time Internet Tests Network not yet installed at new observatory. Operated from roof of Athabasca U with camera in a U of Calgary portable “R2-D2” enclosure, May 25 to present. Flawless operation Imager data available, reliably, in real-time via the WWW

8. Movie: May 28, 2003 onset at 05:54:20 UT breakup.mov

9. Onset identification

11. Software Open-Source Red Hat 9 w/ccd_kernel v1.7 Linux USB driver works reliably when sound- related drivers are disabled Image transfer time (CCD to PC): 3.5 s / image 250x250 binned pixels, 16 bpp. 0.7 deg/pix. 2 km spatial resolution in zenith (100 km)

13. Imager issues C-mount loose: excessive amount of play Focusing problem. Not possible to go past best focus to ensure it is the best focus Telecentric optics does not allow insertion of interference filter, only hot mirror If hot mirror not sufficient to protect CCD, a mechanical shutter must be implemented

14. Imager issues 30 mm dia hot mirror supplied by UCB Mirror was ground down to 25.4 mm and installed in camera.

15. Imager issues Camera has been running since May 25 without any discernable damage to CCD Spare CCDs have been obtained, “just in case” Sony ICX249AL CCDs are on High Manufacturer Allocation – nevertheless we were able to procure spares ($200/each)

16. Sensitivity Issues Field tests have shown that camera is suited for its intended purpose Onset can be detected with 5 second resolution, in 1-second exposures Bright onset auroras quickly saturate the imager – may want to consider < 1 s exp. Stars at visual magnitude 3.3 are seen Photon transfer analysis to be done PSF to be measured and optimum binning chosen