• Please read this manual to get acquainted with the setup and the specifics of the system
  
  
• NEVER view the Sun through the telescope. It does not have the necessary solar filters and solar projection will wear away the coatings on the mirror over time. Looking through the telescope visually will cause blindness, and can damage the camera.
  
  
• NEVER tighten the screws at the back of the telescope. The screws lock the mirror in place. Robofocus does this automatically to prevent mirror shift. Also Robofocus is temperature compensating- it will make adjustments as necessary on its own. If the mirror is locked down when those adjustments are made damage could result to the mirror.
  
  
• NEVER end your session at the telescope without turning off the telescope via Robofocus. Even if you disconnect from VNC, the observatory computer will still operate and run the telescope. The telescope could end up twisting around damaging equipment and cables.
  
  
• NEVER move the telescope without watching it on the video monitor. Make certain you are ready to abort a slew in progress if you see cables getting wrapped or equipment about to get damaged.
  
  
• NEVER operate the observatory in high winds. The images will jump and dance around in the telescope anyway ruining any images you wish to take. The wind can also do damage to the dome if opened- especially the shutter panels. Obviously don't operate the telescope during bad weather. Be certain to take precautions in very high winds by taping the chains tight against the dome. High winds have done previous damage to the dome. See the section under "Opening and Closing the Dome" for specific details in preparing the observatory for times of non-use.
  
  
• NEVER remove the tape around the ST2000-XM. It has a light leak and this enables the camera to take images.
  
  
• NEVER enter the Musk Observatory in a space suit. There is not enough room to move around and equipment can get damaged. Safety, Sim, Science. In this case it's the safety of the equipment that is at stake.