On october 1, 2005 the initial field trials began for the deep sky astronomical institute. A 16 inch meade schmidt cassegrain telescope was transported to the observing site.

Additional telescopes were also used. Field studies were conducted throughout the entire evening. Initial data showed extremely dark skies with stars seen to the 16th magnitude.

Lee and Criad discuss limiting magnitudes of the observing site. The discussion is crucial. A large profrssionally designed telescope necessitates an extremely dark site with a steady atmosphere.

The site is definitely remote - there are no nearby towns (at least 25 miles), no electricity and no water. All supplies must be trucked in, but this is a plus - no stray light can be near the proposed domes.

Members of the advanced observation team convene. Lee, Norm and Bob pose with the 16 inch schmidt.

Rodney Anderson adjusts the collimation on the 16 inch schmidt. Great care has been taken to shield the telescope from the surrounding dry trrrain. A giant field tripod has been set up to ensure a perfectly balanced mount. The telescope uses a go-to computerized GPS system to locate and identify objects. Each object is entered into the computer drive of the 16 inch, at whitch point the telescope then automatically slews to the appropriate location. In this fashion, extremely remote ans distant galaxies and quasars can be found.

Deep Sky Astronomical Research Center

Dr. Cohen’s motor home arrives - this will be the new headquarters during the construction phase. Now we have a great place for overnight camping as well as storage of supplies.

Lee and Rodney continue to set up the 16 inch for a night observing.

6 a.m. - a beautiful sunrise at the new property.

Norm’s dog runs around the knoll.