While waiting for the skies to clear in the Wharfedale Valley (Yorkshire, UK) I thought that I'd try the experience of using a remote telescope.
I shopped around and decided on Roboscopes, partly on the basis of that the service is easy and relatively inexpensive to use, and partly on the basis of the diversity and quality of their telescopes.
Disclaimer - I have no connection with the company and I paid the going rate.
I chose to use the Sigma 105 / ASI2600MC rig on Pier 4. This was inspired in largely by the amazing images Mario Spenard has obtained with the lens.
(
https://www.astrobin.com/users/mspenard/)
The acquisition details are: November 2021. no filter, 60 x 30s, 60 x 60 s, 15 x 120s (2 hrs total). Bortle 3 I believe. Processed in PI.
Constructive comments welcome.
So how did I find the experience and would I do it again?
Overall the experience was positive aided by the excellent service from Roboscopes. It provided me the opportunity to generate some data of my own choosing using equipment that I was keen to try out (the Sigma 105 which is now on my shopping list), and as a relative newbie the chance to develop my processing skills during periods (months and months here) of poor weather. Indeed it was a positive enough experience that I would consider joining a syndicate. It would be interesting to hear from any members of one of the syndicates Roboscopes offers.
Finally, as someone with a significant disability - I have Parkinsons - the use of services like Roboscopes may provide a route to continue pursuing the hobby for longer than I might otherwise be able to manage.
However, to be clear, it is no substitute to standing under the stars!
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