AURORA 2.0: The intelligent controller for your automated observatory roll-off roof

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.

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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.

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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.

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Weather automation compatible

AURORA 2.0 can be integrated into your automatic closing routines in case of:

session stop,
weather alert,
or scheduled shutdown.

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💻 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.

👉 Tutorial #1: Download, Installation, and Config. Single & Multi-Instance Connections
👉 Tutorial #2: Control Multiple Observatories with Aurora N.I.N.A. 🚀 Multi-Instance Demo
👉 Tutorial #3: Aurora 2.0 Multi-Instance Utility 🚀 Control 4 Observatories Simultaneously
👉 Tutorial #4: Aurora 2.0 + N.I.N.A. 🚨 Telescope Parked Safety: Real-World Test
👉 Tutorial #5: Aurora 2.0 + N.I.N.A. 🚀 Multi-Instance: 2 Observatories on a Single PC

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🛠 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.

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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.

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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.

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Technical specifications

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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)

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Why I designed AURORA 2.0 this way — by Fabien, designer

“I designed AURORA 2.0 because the safety of your equipment comes first. ASCOM and N.I.N.A. were chosen as the most reliable standards in our community — I use them myself every day, which naturally shaped my choices. Every setting has been tested and retested at my own observatory, before being offered to you.”

— Fabien, designer of AURORA 2.0

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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.

Still undecided? Read our DIY vs. Aurora 2.0 comparison before making your decision.

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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.

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Ready to automate your nights?

Move to a reliable and comfortable observatory management system with AURORA 2.0.

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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.