Infrared sky brightness monitors for Antarctica

Two sky brightness monitors-one for the near-infrared and one for the mid-i nfrared-have been developed for site survey work in Antarctica. The instrum ents, which we refer to as the NISM (Near-Infrared Sky Monitor) and the MIS M (Mid-Infrared Sky Monitor), are part of a suite of instruments being depl oyed in the Automated Astrophysical Site-Testing Observatory (AASTO). The c hief design constraints include reliable, autonomous operation, low power c onsumption, and of course the ability to operate under conditions of extrem e cold. The instruments are currently operational at the Amundsen-Scott Sou th Pole Station, prior to deployment at remote, unattended sites on the hig h antarctic plateau.