I’m pleased to share significant progress on the Voyager WebDashboard development, introducing substantial improvements that enhance both functionality and user experience for remote astronomical operations.
Availability and Testing
The updated WebDashboard is now available for testing at: Voyager Web Dashboard (new link updated)
Please note this is a development version and may be potentially unstable. We welcome feedback from users regarding any malfunctions or issues encountered during testing.
System Requirements
Minimum Voyager Version: 2.3.12 or higher is required for full compatibility with the new features.
Core Infrastructure Improvements
The foundation of the WebDashboard has undergone comprehensive code rewriting and optimization. This restructuring focused on improving performance, maintainability, and overall system stability. The optimization efforts have resulted in more efficient websocket communication with the Voyager Application Server and enhanced response times across all dashboard operations.
Remote Sequence Management
One of the most significant additions is the complete Remote Sequence functionality, providing comprehensive sequence control directly from the web interface:
Sequence Creation: Users can now create new observation sequences through the WebDashboard interface. Note that editing and creation options are limited compared to the full Voyager desktop application. We recommend creating your base sequence in Voyager desktop first, then using it as a starting template for creating new sequences via the dashboard.
Sequence Modification: Existing sequences can be edited remotely with access to core parameters including target coordinates, filter selections, exposure settings, and timing configurations.
Remote Launch: Sequences can be initiated directly from the dashboard, providing seamless integration between planning and execution phases of astronomical observations.
License Requirements: Remote Sequence features are exclusively available for Advanced, Full, and Plugin Developer license holders.
Enhanced Virtual Field of View
The Virtual FoV has been significantly enhanced with two major additions:
Altitude Chart Integration: A comprehensive altitude tracking chart now displays real-time altitude data for both the selected target and lunar position throughout the observation period. This chart provides essential planning information, showing optimal observation windows and potential lunar interference periods.
Lunar Phase Information: Detailed lunar phase data has been integrated into the Virtual FoV, providing astronomers with critical information for planning deep-sky observations. The system displays current lunar illumination and phase progression, essential for scheduling optimal imaging sessions.
License Compatibility: The Virtual FoV with altitude chart functionality is available for all license types, including Standard licenses.
User Interface Improvements
Fixed Connection Button: A dedicated connection button has been added to the top navigation bar, providing quick access to connect using the saved connection settings from the dedicated connection panel. This streamlines the connection process and improves workflow efficiency.
Testing and Feedback
As this is a development release, we encourage the community to test the new features and report any issues encountered. Please ensure testing is conducted safely by monitoring operations closely to prevent any potential problems. Your feedback is invaluable in helping us identify and resolve potential problems before the stable release.
Looking Forward
These enhancements improve remote observatory operations and provide better integration between planning and execution phases of astronomical observations.