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Guide to Operating Your ASIAIR Remotely with OpenVPN

Introduction

Welcome to the exciting world of remote imaging with ASIAIR! This guide will help you operate your ASIAIR device remotely using an OpenVPN connection provided by Starfront Observatories. If you’ve previously used your ASIAIR locally, you’ll find this process straightforward.

For a complete introduction to remote imaging and how to optimize your setup, visit our Remote Imaging 101 page.

Many of our customers successfully run their ASIAIR setups each night, and you can too! For a detailed breakdown of how ASIAIR works remotely, check out this video made by a Starfront customer (Skip to 35:45).

What You Need

  • ASIAIR Device: Either an ASIAIR or ASIAIR Mini

  • Network Connection:

    • For ASIAIR: Use an Ethernet cable.

    • For ASIAIR Mini: Connect via Wi-Fi.

  • OpenVPN Client: A simple app you’ll install on your computer or mobile device.

  • Static IP Address: Provided by Starfront Observatories.

Installation by Starfront Observatories

Starfront Observatories staff will handle the installation and connection of your ASIAIR equipment to our network. This document outlines the steps we take to get your system ready for remote access, so you know what to expect once it’s set up.

Important Email from Starfront

After installation, you will receive an email from Starfront containing:

  • Your OpenVPN credentials

  • Configuration file

  • Static IP address for your ASIAIR

Check your inbox for this critical information—it’s essential for remote access.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Connect Your ASIAIR to the Internet

For ASIAIR (Ethernet Connection)

  • Plug in the Ethernet Cable: Connect one end to your ASIAIR and the other to your router.

  • Power On: Ensure your ASIAIR is turned on.

For ASIAIR Mini (Wi-Fi Connection)

  • Turn on your ASIAIR Mini.

  • Open the ASIAIR app on your phone and follow the steps to connect it to your Wi-Fi network.

2. Set Up OpenVPN

  • Get OpenVPN Details: Check the email from Starfront for your setup file and login info.

  • Download OpenVPN:

    • Install the OpenVPN app on your computer or mobile device.

  • Add Configuration:

    • Open the OpenVPN app and import the file you received from Starfront.

  • Log In:

    • Enter your username and password if prompted.

3. Connect to Your ASIAIR

  • Launch OpenVPN: Start the app and connect to the OpenVPN network. You should see a confirmation when connected.

  • Open the ASIAIR App:

    • Enter the static IP address provided in the email.

    • Now you can control your ASIAIR as if you were at home!

Troubleshooting Tips

If You Can’t Connect:

  • Check that you are connected to OpenVPN.

  • Ensure you entered the static IP address correctly.

  • Verify that your ASIAIR is powered on and connected to the network.

If the ASIAIR App Is Not Working:

  • Restart the ASIAIR app and try again.

  • Check for updates for the app or your ASIAIR device.

Stay Secure

  • Keep your OpenVPN app updated for the latest security enhancements.

  • Do not share your static IP address or OpenVPN credentials with anyone.

Conclusion

Using your ASIAIR remotely is easy! Follow these steps, and you’ll be observing the night sky from anywhere. If you have any questions or need help, feel free to reach out to Starfront customer support.

Happy stargazing! ✨

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