Private Field Training – Observation & Astrophotography

Buying good equipment isn't always enough to get good results. Private hands-on training is an excellent investment for thriving in astronomy!

It is precisely to avoid this that we offer private training sessions, conducted directly in the field, using your own equipment.

Unlike a theoretical training course, we work under the actual conditions in which your equipment is used. We go through each step together so that you can then set up your system entirely on your own.

Fully Customized Training

Each session is tailored to your skill level, your equipment, and your goals.

Whether you simply want to learn how to observe the sky or set up a complete automated astrophotography system, we’ll tailor the content to your needs.

Depending on your equipment, the following topics, among others, may be covered:

Comprehensive Analysis of Your System

• Checking Your Hardware Compatibility
• Optimization of the optical chain
• Checking Back Focus and Accessories
• Suggestions for improvement, if necessary

Computer Configuration

• Installing and Updating Drivers
• Software Verification
• Configuring the Flight Control Computer
• Resolving any communication issues

Implementation in the Field

Together, we’ll conduct a comprehensive observation or data collection session:

• Setting Up the Tripod and Mount
• Set-up
• Balancing
• Preheating
• Focusing
• Astrometry and Automatic Alignment
• Framing Objects
• Self-steering
• Managing the Meridian Turnaround
• Start of Acquisitions

The goal is for you to be able to perform all of these steps on your own.

Learn More

For more advanced users, we can also cover:

• Calibration Images: Darks, Flats, Offsets
• Signal-to-noise ratio
• Selecting and Using Filters
• Optimizing Installation Times
• Full automation of sequences
• Best Practices for Procurement

Practical Training

This feature is intentionally dedicated to data collection in the field.

Our goal is to teach you how to capture high-quality images right from the start and to fully master your equipment.

Image processing using PixInsight, Photoshop, Siril, or other software is offered as a standalone module in the form of private lessons, either at our offices in Nyon or remotely.

After the training

Our goal isn't just to show you how your equipment works, but to help you become truly self-sufficient.

We provide follow-up support after the training to answer any questions that may arise during your first outings.

Rate

CHF 200.–

The training session lasts as long as it takes to answer your questions and ensure that you leave with a thorough understanding of your system.

Travel expenses may apply depending on where you live.

How is the training organized?

The training courses are provided by Arnaud, a passionate amateur astronomer and astrophotographer with more than 10 years of experience in stargazing and astrophotography.

Each training session is fully customized and arranged directly with him. Once you've made your reservation, you'll be put in touch with him so you can work out the details together:

• the date of the training; ;
• the meeting place; ;
• the equipment that will be used; ;
• the goals you want to achieve.

Communication takes place via email at the following address: info@deep-space-astronomy.ch, which allows you to prepare as thoroughly as possible for the session before your first night in the field.

Training sessions are held directly at your observation site so that all advice is tailored to your environment and your facility. We can travel throughout French-speaking Switzerland (and beyond, depending on availability); travel expenses may apply depending on the location.