This is first light on my new Takahashi TOA150 on a 10Micron GM2000 mount that is deployed at Sierra Remote Observatories. After a frustrating month of the requisite learning curve dramas, I am finally collecting data. We installed this rig in March and are only now up and running. Delays on parts and troubleshooting a stubborn tracking problem when imaging unguided have consuming the past several weeks. I have a slight RA drift when unguided regardless of great PA and trying multiple models. I have given up for now and use an autoguider to correct for it while I regroup and prepare to try the next sure-thing fix. I am now convinced it is being caused by flexure in the rig that is not quite predictable so cannot be modeled out. Something loose perhaps.
Coincidentally, I choose M101 as my test target and ended up imaging the SN as it happened. Unfortunately the tracking error does not make for crisp images of the event. Any way, I decided to keep on the target and make it my first light image, despite the fact that it is suddenly the most overexposed target in the astrophotography community. Still, a very cool event to witness.
Many thanks to
@Bray Falls who helped manage the install and set up for me. I highly recommend working with him.
CS
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