20" (half meter) f5.3 Dobsonian Reflector.
The half meter telescope is housed in a large run off roof observatory which provides the perfect environment for visual observation of the night sky. It is equipped with an 'NGC Max' object locating computer, Telrad finder and a 2" JMI NGF focuser. This telescope is the ultimate for visual deep sky observing. The use of step ladders is required. Now with HiLux coatings this telescope has the same light gathering capacity as a normally aluminised 22" telescope!

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Intes MN71 - 18cm f6 Maksutov-Newtonian. EQ6 Pro SynScan equatorial mount with autoguider.
This equipment comprises our imaging facility.
The Intes is housed in a 3 meter dome which has mains power, work benches, and lighting. This creates a superb environment from which to carry out all kinds of imaging. Equipped with a MoonLite motorised focuser, even a DSLR can be comfortably mounted and bought to focus at prime-focus*.
This is a great telescope for deep sky or planetary imaging. You could even try looking through it for some of the best planetary and lunar views available! (seeing permiting)
A 'goto' mount, superb russian optics with plenty of light grasp and high contrast make this an excellent and enjoyable telescope. HiLux coatings on the mirrors give 25% more light throughput.

Please note. Because of the complex nature of this telescope it will only be possible to use it or image with it unaccompanied if you have prior experience with similar equipment. If you have no prior experience please see our optional courses and the Imaging section below.

Click here for more pictures or *Click here for DSLR mounting details

Imaging. For those who wish to image but don't want to bring, or don't have, all of the kit we can offer the following for use in conjunction with our Intes MN71 and EQ6;
A Canon 350D dslr for deep sky imaging. The Canon can be controlled via 'DSLR focus' software. Additionally our Meade DSI can be linked to the EQ6 and used as an autoguider.
For the moon and planets an Imaging Source DFK 21AU04.AS colour camera is available. We have a dedicated laptop with the required software loaded and configured for use with all the above hardware plus the cables and adaptors needed.

Please note. Prior familiarity is necessary and we do make a charge for the use of this extra equipment. If you have no prior experience with imaging then you can use this equipment through our optional courses.

14" (35.5cm) f4.5 Dobsonian Reflector with Telrad. Compact but plenty of light gathering. Fitted with an NGC Max. This telescope is proving to be very popular as no use of step ladders is needed.. picture

Our site is located in one of the darkest areas of England. This data was collected by the Campaign for Dark Skies who rate this area with a visual limiting magnitude of 5.75 - 6.00. Click here to see an excerpt from the 'Philips Dark Skies Map' that clearly show the outstanding skies this area offers.

Both the run off roof and the domed observatory provide valuable shelter from the elements and your lodge is only a moment away for that all important coffee and warmth! We will show you how to use the telescopes during daylight, so that come nightfall you will be able to observe without someone 'looking over your shoulder' the whole time. If you don't feel confident then we would be pleased to assist until you do. This all contributes to a unique and enjoyable observing experience.

We really enjoy visual astronomy, but as you'll see from our gallery we have experience in most types of imaging and image processing. We will be more than happy to help or advise.

For pictures of visiting equipment and guests enjoying the night sky. click here.

To see some of our telescopes being used 'in the field'. click here

From our Home Page - Don't forget our Gallery and the Gallery of images taken by guests during their stay.