Seeking Partner for Remote Observatory Setup (Takahashi FSQ130-ED & AP Mach1)

Hello everyone,

I’m in the early stages of planning to ship my astrophotography rig to a remote observatory in the Southern Hemisphere and am looking for a like-minded partner to share operational costs and data / access time on equal terms. Below are the key details:
 

My Equipment & Proposal

• Telescope: Takahashi FSQ-130ED (F/5, FL=650mm)
Rare, exceptionally sharp flat-field optics, pinpoint stars.

• Mount: Astro-Physics Mach1 GTO
Excellent guiding performance (no absolute encoders, but delivers sub-arcsecond, typically 0.6" RMS).

• Camera (optional): QHY367C full-frame OSC
I’m open to mono options

I plan to cover the shipping and setup of the FSQ-130ED and Mach1 to the chosen site. Depending on your equipment contribution (e.g. a mount with absolute encoders, full-frame mono camera plus filter wheel, etc.), we would split:

1. Operational costs (hosting, power, maintenance) - proportional to the value of each party’s equipment contribution for a defined time period
2. Data access / imaging time

I’m looking for:

• Commitment: a partnership with an experienced astrophotographer minimum for a year contract with an option for additional time.
• Camera: Full-frame mono with an OAG and a filter wheel
• Mount: Preferably one with absolute encoders (or use my A-P Mach-1)
• Location preference: Australia (10% import tax) or comparable site

Why join?

• Exceptional quality of FSQ-130ED coupled with full-frame sensor and high-end mount
• Access to Southern sky gems
• Cost efficiency: Share fixed hosting fees and maintenance
• Data sharing: Equal access to raw and calibrated frames
• Flexibility: Coordinate imaging projects and scheduling together
• Technical collaboration: Pool expertise on equipment operation and image acquisition

For additional details and enquiry, please contact me via PM.
Clear skies,
Leo