Bulletin of Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv. Astronomy, no. 72, p. 44-48 (2025)
MODERNIZATION OF THE CLAMPING AND UNCLAMPING SYSTEM ALONG THE AXES OF THE AZT-8 TELESCOPE
Igor LUK’YANYK1, PhD (Phys. & Math.), Senior Researcher
ORCID ID: 0000-0002-3779-7864
e-mail: iluk@knu.ua
Mykola BUROMSKY1, Leading Engineer
ORCID ID: 0009-0006-8623-5135
e-mail: nburomsky@knu.ua
Mykhailo LASHKO2, Researcher
ORCID ID: 0000-0003-4868-1442
e-mail: lash@mao.kiev.ua
Viktor KARBIVSKY2, Researcher
ORCID ID: 0009-0001-2725-0865
e-mail: karb@mao.kiev.ua
1 Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Kyiv, Ukraine
2 Main Astronomical Observatory of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine
Abstract
Background. The clamping and unclamping system along the right ascension and declination axes of the AZT-8 telescope is an important component for precise pointing and stabilization of the optical tube. Its design, developed several decades ago, is based on outdated SL-369 electric motors, which have low energy efficiency, a limited service life, and insufficient flexibility for modern automated control systems. The need to improve reliability, precision, and remote control capabilities has necessitated the modernization of this subsystem.
Methods. To carry out the modernization, an analysis of the current technical state of the clamping/unclamping system was performed, and a replacement circuit was designed. New actuators were selected – NEMA23 57H255-3004ABK stepper motors equipped with built-in brakes – along with TB6600 drivers for their control. The system is operated through an ESP32 microcontroller with Wi-Fi support, enabling remote control from a computer. The control logic is implemented using digital STEP/DIR signal management methods.
Results. As a result of the modernization, an updated clamping/unclamping system of the AZT-8 telescope was developed, integrating both electronic and software control. The new system provides smooth operation, electronic fault locking, and remote state monitoring. Testing demonstrated reduced response time, stable brake operation, and the potential for integration with the future telescope control system.
Conclusions. The modernization of the AZT-8 telescope’s clamping/unclamping system for the hour angle and declination axes has significantly improved its reliability and controllability. The use of NEMA23 stepper motors and TB6600 drivers combined with Wi-Fi-based ESP32 control establishes a foundation for full automation of the telescope’s control system, marking an important step toward increased efficiency of astronomical observations.
Key words
Astronomical instrumentation, telescope, modernization, automation.
References
Luk’yanyk I., Karbovskyi V., Kleschonok V., Buromskyi M., & Lashko M. (2024). AZT-8 telescope modernization project. Bulletin of Taras Shevchenko Kyiv National University. Astronomy, 69, 23–29. https://doi.org/10.17721/BTSNUA.2024.69.23-29