New Mainsail Spectroscopic Observatory

[Merlin66]

The Mainsail Spectroscopic Observatory is nearing completion.
Pier mounted NEQ6pro head, C11, Spectra-L200 spectrograph, ATiK314 spectral imager, Lodestar guider + 200mm Zuiko/Atik16 electronic finder (plate solving), JMI focuser
AstroArtV6 used for acquisition, guiding and focus; EQMod/ CdC for telescope control and BASS project for spectral processing.
Majic!

[Rick Parrott]

Very, very nice! Any external pics?

[Merlin66]

Rick, et al,
The rear section of an existing 3 x 6mtr workshop was converted to the observatory; the ROR roof slides over the existing workshop roof.
The local laptop communicates back to the "home office" via a CAT5 cable and Teamviewer.

[Rick Parrott]

Really nice set-up!

[Merlin66]

Thanks mate!

[multiweb]

That spectroscope thingy is massive. I had no idea. In my mind I always thought a spectroscope was a small grating that you stuck in your camera nose piece. :) Cool obs. Green with envy. I'm still a few years from getting a permanent setup myself.

[Merlin66]

Marc,
Yes, things get a little more complicated and complex when you move into serious slit spectroscopy.....
A bit like AP, you can start with a DSLR on a tripod....but once the bug bites you end up with precision mounts, guiding headaches and sophisticated cooled CCD camera - and the associated $$$ software.
The C11 set-up is a dedicated spectrograph set-up - I don't think I've ever "looked through" it for four years!

[John W]

Hi Merlin (Ken),
Nice to see your setup is coming along. I like the large scope inside - a lot of counterweights though ! All the best.
Regards, John W.

[Merlin66]

Thanks John,
It should be fully operation by your next visit ;-)

[graham.hobart]

Very cool ! looks fantastic.
I'm taking two of your books on holiday to read about spectroscopy whilst my kids gambol in the kiddies pool!
cheers
Graham

[Merlin66]

Graham,
Good to hear that - but I think a Cussler or Dale Brown or a Clancy novel may be easier reading. ;-)

[Chris85]

Loving the NES style controller :thumbsup:

[Merlin66]

Chris,
Yeah, simple and does the job 110% for me!

[Derek Klepp]

Great set up Ken glad its all coming together.