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, 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.
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.
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!
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.
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
Cool obs. Green with envy. I'm still a few years from getting a permanent setup myself.
