The original TESS (Telescope Encoder & Sky Sensor) was designed by Cristóbal García in 2011 as a tool for 'Observatorio Astronómico Remoto', a series of devices to automated remote control of amateur astronomical observatories. TESS provided the azimuth and elevation of the optical tube, brightness of the sky, ambient and sky temperature for cloud detection.

 
TESS-W was developed during the STARS4ALL European Project.

This photometer uses Wifi communication to connect to a router that sends the data in real time using MQTT protocols (IoT). The data is available in real time using GRAFANA panels for visualization. Monthly sky brightness files using the IDA-IAU standard format with the data for each photometer is provided open for any interested citizen.