Quantum Optical Ground Station

ASA OGS with AZ1000

Pushing the Boundaries of Quantum Research

Innsbruck’s quantum physics center is one of the world’s leading institutions in the field of quantum information and, thanks to the ASA AZ1000 telescope, is able to communicate with other research centers in Europe and around the world via satellite-based quantum communication.

The complete development of the ground station was carried out by ASA – Astrosysteme Austria. From initial concept and mechanical and optical design to control systems and full system integration, every component of the station was developed in-house. This comprehensive in-house expertise ensures maximum precision, reliability, and perfect coordination of all elements – essential for high-end applications in quantum communication and space technology. The dome production was carried out in cooperation with Innovametall.

More info ASA AZ1000 More about Quantum Research Story Innovametall See this ASA news Areas of Application

Areas of Application for ASA Telescopes

1. Astronomy & Astrophysics (Research)
University observatories and research institutes around the world use ASA telescopes for:

Exoplanet observation
Galaxy and star formation research
Supernova surveys
Spectroscopy and photometry

2. Earth Observation & Satellite Tracking
Especially in combination with ASA mounts, the systems are used for:

LEO/MEO/GEO satellite tracking
Space debris monitoring
Space situational awareness (SSA)
Optical ground stations for laser communication

3. Defense & Security
Within ESA/EDA projects and national programs, ASA systems are used for:

Monitoring of airspace and near-Earth orbits
Dual-use systems (civilian and military applications)
Subcomponents for adaptive optics and target tracking systems

4. Industry & Technology Development
As test platforms or for system testing, e.g., for:

Optics development and calibration
Sensor integration
Automated telescope systems in high-tech industrial environments

5. Public Outreach & Educational Projects
In planetariums or visitor centers, but also for:

Citizen science projects
High-resolution live broadcasts of astronomical events

6. Optical Payloads for Satellites

ASA systems are particularly characterized by their high precision, fast tracking, carbon-reinforced construction, and modular automation—making them unique in many of these areas of application.

ASA Impressions

AZ1000 Innsbruck Hafelekar 2025

Products in use

ASA AZ1000 f7

Next level high-end telescope system with 1m aperture

Optical design: Ritchey-Chrétien RC
Linear central obstruction: 40%
Focus position: Nasmyth 2 as standard, 4 as option
Focal length: 7000mm
Focal ratio system: f7
Clear Aperture / Focal Ratio Primary Mirror: 1000mm (39.4 inch) / f2
Image field: 150mm (1.22 degrees)
Mirror material: Fused silica (option Zerodur)
Surface quality: >94 strehl
Microroughness: 1nm RMS / <0.7nm Ra
Coating: Al+SiO2 >91%
Back Focus from flange: 338mm
Total weight: 1200kg (2646lbs)
Software: ASA Software package with a platform-independent Ascom Alpaca API (via TCP/IP), compatibility with numerous programs, and many additional API features for:
• Creating and optimizing pointing files
• MLPT (e.g., usable with a N.I.N.A plugin)
• Uploading and tracking TLE and CPF satellite orbits
• Orbit corrections when satellite tracking (autoguiding with external CCD cameras)
• Focus control also via Ascom Alpaca API
• Covers (if installed) via Ascom Alpaca API
• Full API control over rotator, Nasmyth port
Pointing Accuracy (20° to 85°): <8” RMS with pointing model
Tracking Accuracy (20° to 85° – unguided, with current pointingfile): <0,25” RMS within 5 minutes
System Natural Frequency: 10 Hz or greater
Satellite tracking: All sky pointing error (20°-85°) 8” RMS more info