Development of a software framework for automated performance test of astronomical cameras

Abstract

Modern astronomical observation increasingly relies on large-format, high-sensitivity scientific-grade cameras, motivated by the testing demands of projects such as the Wide Field Survey Telescope (WFST) and Earth 2.0 (ET). Camera testing is an essential step in the design and manufacturing process of these scientific-grade cameras. However, existing testing processes often require users to manually set test conditions and analyze data, significantly reducing the efficiency of the manufacturing process. Therefore, we present PixelXVisionPlatform, an automated testing system that controls its components via a Software Development Kit (SDK). This system can autonomously acquire flat-field frames and dark frames while performing automated analysis of detector linearity, read noise, conversion gain, dark current, photo-response non-uniformity, and pixel defects. The results show that this approach significantly improves the testing efficiency of scientific-grade cameras. More importantly, the platform provides standardized, parameterized reports and test logs, offering reliable support for fault diagnosis and equipment upgrade iterations.