I Built a Backyard Observatory... Here’s What It Can Do

I built a backyard observatory here in Iowa to make astrophotography faster, more consistent, and way more enjoyable and in this video I’m giving you a full tour of the setup. From the telescope and camera, to the mount, automation, and workflow, this is how I’m capturing galaxies like M51 from Bortle 6 skies. Image Details (M51 – Whirlpool Galaxy): • ~14 hours total integration • LRGB imaging • Captured from Bortle 6 skies Equipment Used: • Telescope: Planewave CDK 12.5 (w/ focal reducer) • Mount: iOptron CEM120 • Camera: ZWO ASI2600MM • Focuser: Optec Leo • Guiding: Optec Sagitta OAG + ASI174MM Mini • Software: NINA, PixInsight, Photoshop If you’re into astrophotography or just getting started, consider subscribing. #astrophotography #deepsky #observatory #space #telescope