Merlino - P. R.O.

Merlino is the Personal Remote Observatory of Avalon-Instruments. It is designed to be totally "user friendly", and it is current state  of the art in  providing you with a vastly more comfortable and efficient use of your telescope, allowing the photographic using from remote darker sky locations, when time is limited or weather conditions are uncertain

All made possible with a maximum of reliability & safety!
The main benefits of our design is its compactness and simplicity of use. Located inside is a PC, a router, amd a dedicated electronic board that manages an entire series of sensors for complete control of your system, in terms of both functionality and safety. The system is controlled by a custom made software interface that allows the Merlino to be used in a mode very similar to a typical mobile setup. In fact, many commonly known software applications are integrated into the system, further increasing easy of use User-Friendliness is our #1 goal for your Merlino!
Thanks to its compact size, Merlino can be used in your terrace, your garden or nearly any available space. The internal 3G router connects your Merlino to a local area network (Intranet) or via the web (Internet) . Of course, internet connection allows you to use your Merlino from a remote location. The Merlino is entirely powered by a 12 volt 18A battery, which allows it to promptly close the session and automatically recover in case of blackout. This feature enables Merlino to be installed in locations where there are no local power supplies, by using a solar panel energy setup.

The Merlino project was developed around the M-Uno Equatorial Mount, that solves most of the problems related to the management of a remote Observatory thanks to its special characteristics.

1) Dimensions: Merlino is offered in a Basic version, based on the M-One mount. External dimensions are 1.65 mt. x 1.20 mt. x 1.25 mt when closed, and 2.30 mt. x 130 mt. x 130 mt. in open mode. The total weight of the structure including the M-One mount is roughly 120Kg. (250 lbs) .

2) The structure is made with anodized aluminum. The mount base is a short pier version, that can be connected with the Merlino structure by using an optional kit. This way, the observatory can be moved together with the installed mount if necessary, in case it will be necessary to move the observatory together with the mount, without disconnect the cables connection. The external protective cover is made molded of epoxy resin, and it has 25mm (1") termal insulation. The finishing is a pleasing white color.

3) Installation of Merlino in your terrace or private garden does not require any permits. Transport is carried out with your Merlin mounted on a pallet, complete with all its features

Specification:

NOTE: The standard Merlino version is compatible with several optics. The system is optimized for to be used with the Celestron HD OTAs up to the C11HD. Other OTA configurations may require additional accessories and adaptations to be evaluated case by case. The system is delivered pre-assembled, except the telescope, CCD and related photography accessories.
The Merlino is a project that is patent protected. It can also be delivered complete with an optical and imaging system and delivered/installed directly at your desired location (quotations upon request). Consider your Merlino as the perfect investment that supports your passion for Astronomy, as the "All in one" system is intricately designed to maintain its value over time.