Development of constellation camera "i-CAN"

-- Basic Concept --
Japanese curriculum guideline for science allocates considerable portion of time to the study of the movement of celestial bodies (stars) for astronomical education in elementary / junior high schools. As observation tool, they are using Internet astronomical observatories. However, existing Internet observatory with a camera equipped at its focal point is good for observing massive objects such as moon, planets, nebulas, and star clusters, but not suitable for observing stars and constellations. To provide improved education tool, we intend to launch comprehensive astronomical observation facilities appropriate for star observation in FY 2005.

If observation target is limited to stars, you don't have to use necessarily conventional observatory with a telescope under the sliding roof. Instead, there are easier ways to realize star observation, and one of them is to install many high-sensitivity and wide-field pan/tilt cameras with each camera covered with an acrylic dome. There are existing all-sky camera networks, but we aim to develop a new camera to meet the following conditions:

  1. To have sufficiently wide field allowing clear view of constellations.
  2. To be able to produce colored images allowing recognition of star colors (taught in elementary schools).
  3. To have interactivity allowing operation by guest user

"i-CAN" is an abbreviation of "Interactive Camera Network", but also carries the connotation of "I can" indicating "interactivity", the third feature mentioned above. In addition, it also derived from its shape of a "can", which was conceived in the planning phase (finally it came down to a box-shaped camera).

We are facing various problems in development of the equipment, selection of the installation site, and negotiation/coordination with local staff. However, we will continue our effort for the development and operation of i-CAN, believing solving these problems steadily will lead to the realization of more active astronomical education for children.