Blogs
Tuesday Update 20 January 2025
It’s been another weekend in the workshop—maybe not the most productive, but progress is progress! This week, I’ve been focused on the off-axis guider. Managed to get one made, but unfortunately, broke a tool piece along the way (always something, isn’t it?). The filter wheel electronics have also been keeping me busy, and while it’s slow going, we’re making steady progress. Jess and I have also been chipping away at NEAF prep—vendor booth is booked, flights are locked in, and things are starting to come together on that front. Other than that, we’ve been doing our best to escape the heat during this so-called "heatwave" but in hindsight it’s just a typical Perth summer! Until next week
Tuesday Update 14 January 2025
Another week is wrapped up, and it’s been all systems go in the workshop! Brendan has been knocking out projects that carried over from last year, making solid progress on the off-axis guider, the filter wheel, and some brand-new parts to upgrade our ambassador Carlos Taylor's setup. Carlos is moving from Brendan's original hand-built SP3 prototype (which, let’s be honest, has stood the test of time like a champ!) to the modern SP3 design. It’s not about fixing something broken—it’s about bringing him into the beta testing group alongside the rest of the team. Meanwhile, Dan has been deep into refining the SP3 mobile app. It’s been a bit of a challenge, with the usual teething problems, but we’re making headway and pushing through. A productive week is in the books, and we’re gearing up for what’s next!
Tuesday Update 7 January 2025
That moment when your holiday feels like it was months ago, even though it’s only been a week! Brendan’s been in the workshop every day working on version 3 of the filter wheel—he’s really on a roll. It’s been great to have this extra time at home to focus on SPA projects before we get swept back into the corporate grind. The countdown to NEAF 2025 has officially begun, and we’re buzzing! We’ve been reconnecting with some of the awesome people we met last year and lining up exciting collaborations for this year’s event. Big things ahead—stay tuned! 🚀
Tuesday Update 17 December 2024
🎄 Final Update for the Year! 🎄 🔧 Installed the carbon fibre spider veins for the SP3, with our usual attention to detail—even ensuring the logos align perfectly on telescopes. 🛠️ Huge thanks to Luke for upgrading his 3D printer! Our SP3 gear cover now features a sleek 3D-printed logo, giving it a polished finish. 🔭 Chris has taken the Quattro telescope for testing over Christmas. We’re excited to see the results and make any final tweaks if needed! 🛒 Great news for our UK and European customers—Octans and Phoenix observatories have cleared customs and will be in stock at Wide Field Centre this week. 🌌 Looking ahead, we’re developing new filter wheels and rotators, with prototypes underway for 2025. As 2024 wraps up, we want to thank you for being part of this amazing journey. From Brendan, Jess, and Dan: Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! 🎅✨ Spend time with your loved ones, enjoy the moment, and we’ll see you in 2025 for more exciting projects and adventures under the stars.