Our new rig is now online. We can do remote observation and we are testing it.
We completed construction of the new observatory (approximately 3×3m) with a roll-off roof on 17 November 2025. The completion was delayed by approximately 17 days from our initial timeline (end of October deadline). This represented a significant success for us. We encountered only minor issues (user errors and similar problems), but everything worked out satisfactorily. The thorough preparation process proved to be key to this success. We waited approximately two days for the first clear sky conditions. Once available, we completed the optical train configuration, installed and calibrated the autofocus mechanics and set its parameters to run smoothly, performed alignment, and carried out polar alignment. Upon completion, we conducted three short imaging runs to obtain preliminary image stacks. Cloud cover then returned, so we concluded the first session and proceeded to PixInsight for data processing and analysis. Here are the results:
We started with NGC 7789 in R filter. 30 sec subs to get 10min total exposure time:
First image with Newton 12" ever. NGC 7789, 10min stack in R filter. Original image
M 42 was second try. We focused a bit more a scope and using 30sec subs obtained 30 min of total exposure time:
M 42 was second light (30min in R) with new Newton 12". Original image
We focused a bit and tried B33. But clouds finished it after 20 min of expousres.
Last try before clouds came in. 20 min in R was third light with Newton 12". Focused, oriented, this optical train is ready to serve. Original image
This is PixInsight analytics of last image:
PixInsight view of last image to analyze it. We need to tilt it baby... And make revision of mirror positions maybe. Original image
Well and that's it. This new Newton 12" f/4 with QHY268Mono cam and BVR photometric filters is ready. Togehter with already working Krteczech (RC10" + G2-8300 + Sloan g',r',i',S,H,O filters) can operate as 40cm mirror when combined. We will try that next clear night and combine it with Makak scope producing RGB (idas or l-extreme) filters. Stay tuned!
Guiding error of Newton 12" Original image