Empowering Global Astronomy and Education: PlaneWave Instruments’ Collaboration with Las Cumbres Observatory
Las Cumbres Observatory (LCO) operates a groundbreaking network of 25 robotic telescopes strategically positioned across seven professional astronomy sites around the world. Managed from the cloud, these telescopes work together as a single, cohesive instrument, enabling both cutting-edge scientific research and dynamic educational outreach.
Enhancing Global Astronomy with PlaneWave Technology
Central to LCO’s diverse array of telescopes are the ten PlaneWave DeltaRho 350s and multiple PlaneWave 1-Meter telescopes, including two in Beijing. The DeltaRho 350s, known for their versatility and reliability, have recently been upgraded with advanced hardware and cameras, significantly improving the network’s capacity for both research and educational applications.
These upgrades have not only strengthened the performance of the 0.4-meter telescopes but also extended LCO’s ability to engage with underserved populations through innovative educational programs. By utilizing these enhanced DeltaRho 350 telescopes, LCO has expanded its educational outreach, offering new curricula and web-based tools that make astronomy accessible to students worldwide.
Supporting Science and Education
LCO’s commitment to education is evident in their partnerships with 34 “Global Sky Partners,” who use the telescopes for various educational initiatives. The smaller 0.4-meter DeltaRho 350 telescopes are particularly suited for educational purposes, allowing students at all levels—from middle school to university—to explore the wonders of the universe. These telescopes offer the possibility of visual observation alongside imaging, ensuring that students can engage directly with the night sky while still achieving quality results.
For scientific research, the larger 1-Meter and 2-Meter telescopes are pivotal. LCO’s network plays an important role in projects like the TESS exoplanet survey, which relies on thousands of hours of observation time each year. The upgraded 0.4-meter telescopes, with their improved stability and image quality, are now capable of observing fainter celestial targets, making them an increasingly valuable asset for both educational and scientific pursuits.
Looking to the Future
As LCO prepares for the upcoming Legacy Survey of Space and Time (LSST) project from the Rubin Observatory, the organization continues to refine its educational programs and curriculum. By working closely with educators, LCO ensures that their tools and resources meet the needs of diverse learning environments. The integration of PlaneWave’s technology within this global network exemplifies how innovative telescope design can support both advanced research and widespread educational outreach.
PlaneWave Instruments is proud to play a supporting role in Las Cumbres Observatory’s mission to advance our understanding of the universe through science and education. With our telescopes at the heart of LCO’s operations, we contribute to a global effort that makes astronomy accessible to all—whether through professional research or educational initiatives that inspire the next generation of astronomers.