An automation designed to protect your equipment
In astrophotography, an automated observatory must first and foremost be reliable.
AURORA 2.0 was developed to secure your setup and reduce risks during automated sequences.
Thanks to its built-in safety logic:
the system continuously knows the real state of the roof,
checks the telescope’s parked position before opening or closing,
prevents collisions between the roof and the mount,
and integrates directly into your ASCOM routines.
You remain in control of your observatory, even during long automated or remote sessions.
Why choose AURORA 2.0?
🛡 Built-in intelligent safety
Parking verification before opening or closing
From connection, AURORA 2.0 relies on its dedicated and fully configurable ASCOM driver to check the system status. The telescope park safety check is only active if the user has explicitly enabled and configured the “telescope park safety” option in the driver. When enabled, the system verifies that the telescope is properly parked before allowing any roof opening or closing.
This safety feature prevents accidental collisions between the mount and the roll-off roof.
Precise roof status monitoring
The system uses magnetic proximity sensors to accurately determine the roof state:
Open
Closed
This information is reported in real time to your control software.
Weather automation compatible
AURORA 2.0 can be integrated into your automatic closing routines in case of:
session stop,
weather alert,
or scheduled shutdown.
💻 Full compatibility with your astronomy ecosystem
AURORA 2.0 is designed to integrate naturally into modern astronomy automation ecosystems, with special optimization for N.I.N.A., providing a smooth, reliable control experience directly within your imaging sequences. Our drivers are capable of managing up to 4 instances (4 AURORA 2.0 units) simultaneously on a single PC.
Compatible with Windows 10 & 11
Simple installation via USB connection.
Compatible with ASCOM Dome & Multi-Instance (Up to 4 units)
Control one or multiple roofs directly from your favorite software:
N.I.N.A – Nighttime Imaging ‘N’ Astronomy
Other ASCOM-compatible platforms
AURORA 2.0 Utility dedicated software
The system comes with its dedicated software environment enabling:
real-time monitoring,
safety tests,
sensor diagnostics.
🎥 Getting Started with Aurora 2.0
To help you get up and running, we have prepared a detailed video tutorial covering driver download, installation, and configuration of the connection utility in both single-instance and multi-instance modes.
🛠 Simplified installation
AURORA 2.0 is designed for fast integration into amateur observatories.
Compact and robust enclosure
The enclosure features integrated side mounting tabs for simple and secure wall installation.
Quick setup
Installation in just a few minutes with:
4 standard Ø3.5 mm screws,
direct USB connection,
motor and sensor terminal wiring.
Direct USB power
The system is powered directly via the PC USB port:
5V DC
500 mA
No bulky external power supply required.
Motor compatibility
AURORA 2.0 uses a dry contact output compatible with most:
gate motors,
garage motors.
Available functions:
The “ToitRoulantObservatoire AstroRemoteSystems v1.1” driver manages: Open / Close.
The “ToitRoulantObservatoire AstroRemoteSystems v2.1” driver manages: Open / Stop / Close.
The user selects the driver best suited to their needs.
Typical use cases
AURORA 2.0 is especially suitable for:
fixed astrophotography observatories,
automated observatories,
remote control setups,
N.I.N.A automated sequences,
premium setup protection.
Technical specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Origin | Made in France |
| Power supply | USB2 Type-B – 5V DC / 500mA |
| Connectivity | Dedicated open/close sensor ports |
| Motor compatibility | Dry contact output |
| Motor functions | Open / Stop / Close / Stop |
| OS compatibility | Windows 10 & 11 |
| Software compatibility | ASCOM Dome |
| Compatible software | N.I.N.A, SGP, Prism… |
Package contents
Each AURORA 2.0 is delivered ready to install:
1x AURORA 2.0 controller
Dimensions: 7.6 x 3.5 x 2.6 in (L x W x H)
1x PC connection cable
Connector: USB2 Type-A to USB2 Type-B | Length: 5.9 ft
1x Kit of 2 magnetic sensors
Cables: 2x 16.4 ft
1x Motor dry-contact connection cable
Length: 16.4 ft
Digital access: Drivers and software utility (download)
Included service: Dedicated technical support (PDF download)
Expert opinion
“AURORA 2.0 brings real peace of mind to astrophotographers using an automated observatory.
Parking verification before opening or closing, and precise roof status monitoring, make it possible to secure a setup that may include thousands of euros worth of equipment.
It is a solution designed for users seeking reliable automation fully integrated into their ASCOM environment.”
Frequently asked questions
Is AURORA 2.0 compatible with my motor?
The system works with most sequential motor systems (open / stop / close / stop) using dry contact control.
Can I use it with N.I.N.A?
Yes.
AURORA 2.0 is ASCOM Dome compatible and can be controlled directly from N.I.N.A.
Does the system work without internet?
Yes.
Operation is fully local via your PC and ASCOM setup.
Is it suitable for a DIY observatory?
Yes.
AURORA 2.0 is designed to integrate easily into custom-built observatories.
Designed and made in France
AURORA 2.0 is developed with a focus on reliability, simple integration, and observatory safety.
This system is designed to meet the real-world needs of demanding astrophotographers.
Ready to automate your nights?
Move to a reliable and comfortable observatory management system with AURORA 2.0.
Important note
Indoor use only.
Install the dedicated driver before first connecting the system.
Always verify the mechanical safety systems of your installation before automated operation.
