When I was in Curacao last year to do my period of coral reef research, I found the Open Astro Tracker by chance when surfing on the internet during the evening hours. I was instantly seized by the concept. By training I'm a medical biologist, but an amateur astronomer as well. Besides that, as a parallel career I did coral reef research for more than 40 years. And even more so, now that I am retired with my 77 years of age. During the covid lockdowns in my country I designed and build a 143mm Coude Cassegrain and for that I need a sturdy mount. And that's how the OpenAstrotracker came into view. I decided to build the the Tracker first - for the much needed experience. And construct the Open AstroMount later. For that I had to learn how to work with a 3D-printer - I'm totally ignorant in that field. So I purchased a DIY 3D printer kit and somehow managed to get it working. The large wheel was to large to print, so that's why I ordered it. I't is of excellent design, and now that all parts have been printed, I can appreciate the neatness and finish of the large wheel. Now I'm struggling with the electronics. So far, I did not succeed in building the firmware for the board. In this respect I'm also a complete ignorant. Maybe I should invoke some help. For this Tracker I have a Canon Mark II 5D camera and a Canon EOS 60D camera and some old objectives at my disposal.
But my goal is to build the Open AstroMount for my telecope. As a base I have a sturdy column of aluminium and steel on my flat roof top.
In short, I admire all the people involved in the design of these wonderful mounts and I hope they will continue their good work!
