SBIG Boltwood Cloud Sensor II with 150' Cable

You can rely on the Boltwood Cloud Sensor II for precise and continuous monitoring of sky conditions. This high-tech device measures cloud cover by comparing the sky temperature to the ambient ground level temperature, using the 8 to 14 micron infrared band to determine the sky temperature. A large temperature difference indicates clear skies, while a small difference suggests dense, low-level clouds.

This innovative sensor is equipped with a moisture detector for identifying rain and snow. To avoid false alarms due to frost or dew, the sensor is kept slightly above ambient temperature by a heater. In the event of precipitation, the sensor is automatically heated to 70 degrees Celsius, ensuring a clear view for the sky-measuring thermopile once the precipitation ends.

The Boltwood Cloud Sensor II now also measures wind speed with a specially-designed anemometer that has no moving parts, providing warnings when wind speeds are too high for safe observatory operation. The sensor also detects daylight and can be set to automatically close the roof to prevent sunlight from entering the telescope.

With the ability to measure humidity, this modern device provides a continuous readout of temperature, humidity, and dew point. The included Clarity II Windows software monitors the sensor via a USB interface, displaying and logging all sensor information. Alerts can be visual or auditory, with adjustable thresholds for clouds, wind, and wetness.

The sensor unit itself can trigger an electrical contact closure when heavy clouds, high winds, or precipitation is detected, serving as a 'last line of defence' for your observatory equipment. The thresholds for roof closure are set through the Clarity software.

The package includes the sensor unit, mounting bracket, a data cable (available in 50-, 100-, or 150-foot lengths), a 110/220 VAC 50/60 Hz power supply adapter, and a software CD-ROM. It is compatible with Windows 2000, XP, Vista, 7, 8, 8.1, and 10, with open source Linux drivers also available. The Cloud Sensor can be mounted to a pole using the included mounting bracket, with a 10-degree tilt to help rainwater run off the sensor face. The gold post is the wind speed sensor, and the smaller posts help prevent birds from roosting on the sensor.

In summary, the Boltwood Cloud Sensor II is a sleek, stylish, and reliable tool for meteorological and atmospheric research.