New Member/Old Observer - Introduction to the Group - 2026

[Infinity Engineering]

Hello guys and gals of TAC,

Let me introduce myself. I’m new to the group as of the beginning of 2026, but have been observing and photographing since I was first able to observe the night sky. From tracking and observing the rocket booster that sent sputnik into orbit and learning the constellations, to being fortunate enough to have enjoyed some observing time looking through the optics of some large telescopes, including the 200” (5.1 m) reflector at Palomar and those at Lick and Chabot. Also got to walk around the Haleakalā High Altitude Observatory on Maui.

Through the years I have enjoyed observing many sun and moon eclipses, meteor showers (several spectacular ones), a number of comets, fireballs and even a couple of loud exploding bolide’s, the planets and our moon and of course many of the unlimited targets in the dark night sky that bring all of us together on this fascinating journey we are all part of!

A big high for me was observing all the activity and equipment in use in the control room of the 1000’ (305 m) radio telescope in Arciebo, Puerto Rico during several personal tours my engineering friend (who worked there) took me on. We even drove around underneath the dish in the observatory’s jeep. This was long before the support structure, antenna, and dome assembly all collapsed into the dish on December 1, 2020. Videos of the actual collapse filmed real time are available on-line. I have a remnant piece of the perforated aluminum from the dish that I found on the ground in my own control room now.

I geared up in preparation for viewing and photographing Halley's Comet in 1986. It was an exciting time as I knew it was a once in a lifetime event! I was successful in observing the comet and capturing it on 35mm film and slides. Does anyone remember those days?

I had been researching for some time now, ways to link up with some like minded fellow astronomers that might want to share their knowledge/expertise, share observing time at dark sites, mentor youngsters and the not so young on the wonderment of the universe and maybe make some new friends, all while exploring the universe. 

Fast forward to a couple of weeks ago when I came across TAC. After reading 100’s of posts I quickly realized this was what I was looking for. I feel like I already know many of you from all your posts and pictures, and I’m looking forward to meeting you in the future. I’m amazed at the very high level of expertise shown by many TAC members in their OR’s, in all their equipment and their ingenuity to make it all work, their photographs and their fabrication skills to name a few. 

I look forward to bouncing ideas off the group and asking the many questions I have as I continue my quest for larger light buckets, more complex gear, a remote site with a fully automated dome or roll off roof with remote controlled go-to telescope, and more knowledge and expertise. I want to try rough machining my own large mirror out of aluminum before sending it out for final grinding, polishing and mirror coating. Has anyone ever tried this or have information on the feasibility? I know, it’s just a “small” wish list, but I’ve learned you have to dream big to make it happen!

I’ve just started researching go-to mounts capable of 40-60 pound payloads and full hands off remote control via the internet. I want it to have the ability and the software and fast enough slew rates that allows tracking of near earth orbit satellites and things like the ISS and other spacecraft. My research and calculations indicate slew rates of 5-6 degrees/second are needed. Also, with objects like the ISS, the apparent speed across the sky is not constant during a pass; it changes depending on its position relative to the observer (slower near the horizon, fastest when passing near the zenith). The mount must be able to handle these variable rates smoothly and have capable software for tracking objects like this. Any input would be appreciated.

I’m fortunate to live in one of the few remaining relatively dark pockets in the greater Bay Area located in the east bay hills that was, at least some years back, just as dark as the Del Valle site in Livermore. In the past, I’ve observed at the “secret site” that the Tri-Valley Stargazers club has in Livermore, at Del Valle in Livermore, at Crater Lake in Orgeon and Death Valley along with many other places. I do much of my observing now from this home location but when I want really dark skies, similar to Death Valley, I go to a location we have in the middle of a national forest wilderness on a river far away from any light domes, past Nevada City towards Truckee.

I have been there on solo trips in the past but because of the remoteness of the location, camping alone in the wilderness, the wild 4WD trail to get there, no cell phone reception and first responders or help being many hours away and the fact that I’m not getting any younger, my wife is not too keen on having me go it alone anymore. Last summer I spent several long weekends there feeling like I was the Omega Man! I saw nobody. Heard nothing. Zero vehicles. Just the Milky Way and stars shining brightly casting my shadow on a moonless night serenaded by the sound of the flowing river! 

So, for the more adventuresome of the group, maybe there might be a few that may want to join me at my “secret” site for some observing, adventure and other fun activities?

I’m glad to be part of the TAC TEAM!

Cheers! Wishing everyone clear dark skies,

IE

[Surya Rao]

Welcome to the group, IE!

I’m really impressed by your experiences. Ever since I first heard about the Mount Palomar Observatory and its great 200-inch reflector as a kid, it’s been a dream of mine to visit. It’s amazing that you had the opportunity to spend time with that scope.

As you rightly guessed, we have many seasoned observers on this forum, and it has been a wonderful learning experience for me over the past 4+ years as part of this group. Happy to have you on board as well.

Clear skies!
Surya

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[Drew Pletcher]

Welcome IE.  I also am new to the group and a long time observer and astro imager.   You might want to take a look at the Astrophysics mounts. I have a AP Mach1 GTO which does have slew rates at 5 degrees per second and supports payloads up to 65 pounds.  If your research points you towards this mount,  let me know.  I am happy to discuss my experiences with the mount.

Drew

[Jeff Shapiro]

Hi IE,

Are you willing to share the precise location of your wilderness spot near the river past Nevada City?

Thanks!

[Infinity Engineering]

Howdy Jeff,

The wilderness observing site is a rare parcel of undeveloped private property surrounded by national forest that the owners have allowed us use of for many years (with restrictions), it would be inappropriate for me to share the location publicly. However, if you or others would like to join me as my guest(s) on a trip to check it out sometime, I’m sure we could draft an agreement to protect the site location.

Cheers!

IE