The Basics
While there are a few different ways to configure a Seestar system for Starfront, most are running the iPad version of the Seestar app on an M-series Mac mini and using that to control the Seestar. iPad apps run like native apps on the newer Macs with the M1, M2, or M4 chips. The Mac will talk to your Seestar via WiFi and will be connected to the Starfront network via a 30′ Ethernet cable, which you will need to send with your equipment. You will log into the Mac remotely using AnyDesk or Chrome Remote Desktop, both of which are free. AnyDesk does a better job of interacting with macOS. So you will be sitting at home running the remote Mac as if it were at your house, and the Seestar will be talking to (what it believes is) a local iPad, from which it will get the current time and location.
What Else Do I Need
The other components of the system are a Kasa WiFi power strip into which you’ll plug your Seestar and your Mac. You’ll be able to turn the power off to each device using an app on your phone from home. You’ll need a charger brick for your Seestar and a 6′ USB cable to run from the charger to the Seestar.
You’ll want to send a leveler device for alt-az mode or a eq wedge for eq mode. Only certain wedges are approved for use on the Seestar Bar. Last I heard this list included only the Sky-Watcher and Williams Optics wedges. There are others that would probably work; check with Starfront.
Optional Components
- A pier camera and mount, available from Starfront for about $245 installed. This gives you a view of the orientation of your Seestar and a bit of the sky.
- A SwitchBot remote button-pusher for turning the Seestar off and on remotely.
System Configuration
It’s best to assemble everything at home and test it all to make sure it’s working. Then box it up carefully and send it to Starfront. It’s better if you bubble-wrap all the components and box them in other boxes rather than the original product packaging, so that you don’t have to pay to have your packaging returned to you. Box it up, weigh it, then go to https://pirateship.com for discount shipping labels.
You can also arrange to drop off your equipment instead of shipping it. You won’t be allowed to set it up at the observatory, but you can drop it off and get a brief tour. This all has to be arranged in advance — don’t just show up.
Further Info
From the Starfront unofficial wiki: