Equipment Check and M13

[BlueAstra]

As it was clear yesterday evening I decided to setup the BlueAstra Observatory for an equipment check and general play around. Lots of daylight time to setup up the C8 SCT and Meade ED80 on the EQ6, align the RDF and get all the computer comms up and running. Setup the 1000D and guide cam, this time on the ED80. Also put the DMK on the C8 to check cables, etc. At one point had the 1000D, Lodestar guide cam and DMK all displaying stuff down the same hub usb line to the laptop!

Managed a rough polar align with a bright sky and polaris just visible. Then fired up EQMOD and managed to align and focus on some bright stars while it was still daylight! Then had to wait ages while it got dark enough for the guide cam to spot some stars. Quick calibration then on to a target to check camera comms and procedure. Took 18x1m on M13, no darks or lights, but the main reason was to play and check things! Then it was tear down and some sleep before work.

Anyway here is quick 18x1m M13, wide field with the 1000D and ED80.

[Catanonia]

Good effort for a quick play.

Sometime i can disapear for hours just tinkering the the obs and SWMBO sometimes just doesn't get it until I show the resulting piccies

[BlueAstra]

Thanks for the reply. Just noticed the noise on the image Must do flats and darks next time.

BTW, this is what I have to set up each time. I dream of a permanent setup!

http://stargazerslounge.com/equipment-discussion/102899-typical-nights-setup-ba-towers.html

[Catanonia]

You sir need an observatory

Must be a pain doing that each time.

Check my webpage in my sig for a simple approach that works