www.baader-observatories.com
Observatory Point SIRIUS
Over some steps from a GM1000 and a 5.6" APO from AstroPhysics from 1990 and a handmade steel column from a steel builder over to a GM2000, I finally arrived at the childhood dream: 10Micron GM3000 on a Baader heavy steel pillar BHP. a setting that easily carries the Celestron C14, the RASA 11, the 5.6" APO and the 4" from Takahashi.
In addition I have cameras from QHYCCD, Atik and ZWO ASI. Thus, extensive data can be obtained on any night or the device can be operated that is best suited for the object.
The mount leaves nothing to be desired! Best workmanship, high precision, completely computer controlled, carries 100kg without problems. Despite the high weight of the load, manual movement is also possible without problems and easily due to the very simple locking and unlocking of the axes (no loosening of clamps required). Pointing is a breeze, as with all 10Micron mounts. After only 5 reference stars, the pointing model achieves an accuracy that centers the object in the center of the image.
The hand control box, if required, is user friendly and of course made of metal. All cable connections are screwed. The internal passage of the cables through the mount axis is well solved and has plenty of space. In my case 2 power cables (for powering the minicomputers) and 3 LAN cables as well as a USB cable.
In combination with the heavy steel pillar from Baader, the GM3000 is the perfect combination to get point-like stars during hours of tracking. The mount can also be auto-guided with e.g. a GEM4 without any problems. ASCOM compatible the included planetarium program "Pegasus" can be used and with one mouse click the object can be controlled. The mount is therefore also compatible with Chart du Ciel (Gaia data) and others.
Unjustifiably, I had been wondering if I would need a crane to install the mount and pillar, but both the pillar (material cart) and the mount can be installed and set up by two people with enough muscle power. It makes sense to fill the 120-150 kg of sand into the column only when it finally stands properly. The delivery takes place by forwarding agency in solid transport box (mount) or on pallet (column).
My private observatory was built in 2018, followed in 2021 by the GM 3000 HPS and one year later in 2022 by the Baader steel column as a solid base for the mount. Now my observatory is finally complete. The Baader service keeps its promise! The products are simply professional level.
Markus Mühlenbruch
