Astrobackyard visits Starfront Observatory

Astrophotographer Trevor Jones recently visited the rapidly growing Starfront Observatory in Texas. His visit highlights the growing trend of remote observatories designed for amateur astronomers in search of clearer skies. Situated under Bortle 1 conditions, the facility enjoys more than 200 clear nights annually, making it an ideal location for astrophotography.

Trevor Jones, aka Astrobackyard visits Starfront Observatory

Upon arrival, Jones was impressed by the sheer number of astrophotography systems housed within the observatory. He expressed his excitement at witnessing firsthand the extensive setup process that has been ongoing for the past five months. The observatory accommodates an impressive influx of telescopes, with approximately four new systems being installed daily. Each telescope setup is meticulously managed by Bray Falls and his small team, ensuring that all equipment is ready for use.

Discovering the benefits of Bortle 1 skies at Starfront

Historically, Jones has embraced the ethos of backyard astrophotography, often advocating for setting up personal equipment in outdoor spaces. He acknowledged the irony of visiting a remote observatory, considering his preference for hands-on astrophotography experiences. However, he recognized that not everyone has the luxury of a backyard or suitable location to set up their telescopes. For these individuals, remote observatories present a valuable alternative, allowing them to operate high-quality equipment in optimal conditions without the need for personal travel to dark sky sites.

"If your gonna ship your telescope out to live somewhere, it better be under Bortle 1 skies with over 200 clear nights a year"

The Starfront Observatory operates on a monthly rental basis, with prices starting at $149

The observatory operates on a monthly rental basis, with prices starting at $149 for smaller telescopes and $199 for larger rigs. This pricing structure makes it accessible for a variety of users, providing them the opportunity to utilize advanced astrophotography systems without the burden of ownership. Among the most popular setups in the observatory are the AM5 mounts paired with APTAR refractors and ZWO 2600MM cameras. These configurations have proven to be reliable and effective, enabling users to capture stunning astronomical images consistently.

In addition to the primary telescopes, Jones highlighted the creative setups many users have implemented. Some rigs feature planetary cameras with fisheye lenses, allowing users to monitor their equipment and enjoy the breathtaking night sky simultaneously. This innovative approach enhances the astrophotography experience, fostering a sense of community among users who can share in the beauty of the cosmos from afar.

Making astrophotography accessible to everyone

While his primary purpose for visiting the observatory was to gain insight into its operations, Jones also took the opportunity to engage in some astrophotography himself. He set up his travel rig, equipped with a Ranon 135mm lens, to capture wide-field deep-sky images of the Milky Way. The stunning dark skies at the observatory provided an ideal backdrop for capturing the intricate details of celestial objects, including the rich starfields surrounding the constellation Sagittarius.

Jones emphasized the importance of making astrophotography accessible to everyone, especially those who may own high-quality telescopes but lack the means to use them effectively. Many amateur astronomers find themselves with equipment that remains unused due to unfavorable conditions or limited access to dark sky locations. Starfront Observatory serves as a solution for these individuals, enabling them to realize their passion for astronomy without the obstacles often associated with ownership.

The camaraderie among the technicians and users at Starfront is palpable, with each technician taking the time to remember the names and details of the telescopes they manage. This personal touch fosters a sense of belonging and community, transforming the experience into something akin to a star party. The atmosphere is filled with shared excitement and enthusiasm for the cosmos, as users and technicians alike engage with the equipment and each other.

Jones concluded his visit by reflecting on the allure of operating a telescope in such pristine conditions. The possibility of utilizing a rig in Bortle 1 skies with frequent clear nights is enticing, leading him to ponder whether he might eventually send a telescope to Starfront. As the field of astrophotography continues to evolve, remote observatories like Starfront offer a valuable resource for astronomers, providing the opportunity to explore the wonders of the universe without the limitations imposed by local conditions.

Watch his full video tour below.