15W Solar Panel for Shutter Power

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Since the dome rotates freely from the stationary part of the observatory, a solution to provide power to recharge the 12VDC, 12Ah battery that operates the upper and lower shutters was needed.  The observatory operates during the night, so the daytime is an opportune time to recharge the battery via solar power.  Another 12VDC, 12Ah battery operates the dome rotation which is constantly charged via AC.  Desulphation circuitry conditions the batteries to prolong life.  Environmental conditions, AC power supply, battery life, and remote connectivity are constantly monitored to protect the delicate equipment inside the observatory.  The entire structure "closes" should any of these conditions are detected unfavorable.