Taiwan Astronomical Research Alliance

The Role of TP2m and LOT

The upcoming Trans-Pacific Two-Meter Telescope (TP2m) is poised to become a critical tool for time-domain astronomy, focusing on the observation of transients and Targets of Opportunity (ToOs). Located at San Pedro Mártir Observatory in Mexico, it operates about three hours behind the Vera C. Rubin Observatory's LSST and eight hours ahead of Taiwan’s Lulin One-Meter Telescope (LOT), forming a collaborative, multi-time-zone network to monitor transient events. When LSST detects and identifies potential targets, TP2m and LOT provide timely follow-up observations. By confirming and characterizing transient phenomena such as supernovae, gamma-ray bursts, and kilonovae, TP2m will make significant contributions to the global study of dynamic celestial phenomena.

From LOT to TP2m

TP2m's operations will leverage NCU’s extensive experience managing the LOT, which is supported by a dedicated team of eight observatory staff, including three telescope operators. These operators play a critical role in ensuring rapid adjustments to the fast-changing weather conditions at Lulin Observatory, a skill set that will inform TP2m’s operational framework. A cornerstone of TP2m’s operation is the development of advanced software for its Telescope Control System (TCS), designed to enable remote, automated, and robotic telescope operations. The TCS will ensure rapid responses to real-time alerts, such as transient notifications from LSST, while seamlessly prioritizing and managing observation schedules. Additionally, the TCS will incorporate advanced data archiving and processing capabilities, accelerating the delivery of high-quality data products to researchers. By streamlining operations and enhancing research efficiency, TP2m will strengthen Taiwan’s contributions to the global forefront of transient science.