My first telescope on a roof terrace in Tirol (2008 - 2011)

In 2009, I started my hobby of astrophotography on a rooftop terrace in Maurach am Achensee, using fairly professional equipment. I initially mounted the Celestron CGE on a heavy tripod, later on a concrete base that had to be lifted onto the rooftop terrace by crane. However, in winter, all of this wasn't very fun, at least not during the preparation phase.

I used a TEC APO 140/980, a TAK Baby-Q, and various cameras as telescopes. When I moved to Mondsee, I used the setup stationary in a hut with a roll-off.

My stationary observatory in a shed with a
roll-off huts (2012 to 2018)

I initially chose the Celestron CGE as the mount for controlling the telescopes. It supports devices weighing up to approximately 30 kg (66 lbs), depending on the lever and equipment.

Unfortunately, the standard patch cables for RA and DEC control were extremely error-prone and resulted in numerous failed attempts during long-exposure imaging and guiding. Only after upgrading the mount with a cable set from a US supplier that offers professional cabling for the CGE has the CGE operated flawlessly, even in extreme cold.

In addition, the two bearings for the RA and DEC axes were replaced due to wear. The variable double mount, which allowed me to easily balance up to three telescopes on the EQ8, was also a very valuable aid.

In mid-2016, I decided to replace the aging Celestron CGE with a Skywatcher EQ8 to be prepared for future developments. At 50 kg (110 lbs), it is also significantly more capable.

I've taken some very good images with the EQ8 since 2016. This mount has met all my expectations.

Due to our move from Mondsee to the Linz area, I unfortunately closed my astronomy hut in Mondsee at the end of 2018.