Electrotelescope

Electrotelescopes were optical devices that were used to observe nearby stellar bodies, such as planets, moons, and asteroid.

Description

Electrotelescopes worked on a similar principle to electrobinoculars and macrobinoculars, although they were considerably more powerful. The devices had a high degree of magnification that was augmented by optics and computers that electronically enhanced light from existing sources and reduced visual distortions such as atmospheric haze.^[1]

Electrotelescopes were also equipped with a number of sensors that detected energy emissions and scanned for transmissions from communications sources. The units used a two-stage system when scanning the surrounding area. A general scan covered a wide area, but in limited resolution and detail. If an anomalous reading was detected, the electrotelescope's computer would engage a more detailed scan focused on the area indicated. This allowed the electrotelescope to gather more detailed information. Using these scans, electrotelescopes were capable of detecting incoming small freighters at distances of up to five light-minutes out.^[1]

Most models of electroscope have manual controls with interfaces that could allow datapads and astromech droid to connect to the device. Communications transceivers allowed the transmission and receipt of data from a central source, or as a means to link several electrotelescopes together to cover a wider area.^[1]

Electrotelescopes ranged from small units that could be moved on repulsorlifts and weighed around thirty-five kilograms up to larger units that required installation in an observatory or aboard a satellite.^[1]

History

Electrotelescopes were used as backups for sensors at spaceports, aboard space stations, and at scientific deep-space observation stations. Planets used electrotelescopes as early-warning systems, while colonies used them to scan and track approaching asteroids and comets.^[1]

During the Galactic Civil War, the Alliance to Restore the Republic used electrotelescopes as early warning systems for their outposts on Tierfon, Derra IV, and Thila. The Alliance specifically used Neuro-Saav Technologies' VXI-3 electrotelescopes on Hoth. As secrecy of the base was paramount, the Alliance could not employ active sensors or orbiting satellites.^[1]