RUI: A CCD Camera and Image Processing System for Astronomical Research

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A modern, research quality, Charge Coupled Device (CCD) camera will be acquired for implementation at Appalachian State University's Dark Sky Observatory (DSO). It will be used to capture images that will yield fundamental data in stellar and extragalatic astronomy. A high-speed computer workstation will also be implementted, using the IRAF image processing system already developed by the national observatories. The complete system will allow observational work of the highest quality, as well as extend the limits set by existing equipment. The CCD camera will be used for a number of existing and planned projects. The current program of eclipsing binary photometry will benefit from the CCD's high efficiency and CCD photometry's relative insensitivity to less than ideal observing conditions. The CCD will be used as the detector in a spectrograph being built for use at DSO. The spectrograph will be used for work in stellar classification and studies of chemical abundances in stars. The CCD camera will also be used for studies of optical outbursts in quasi-stellar objects. We would also expect that new projects will be conceived based upon the capabilities of the system. Additionally, the new system will expand the opportunities for astronomy students in the regions, and will help attrack students into the sciences.