Yes! ASIAIR works great in a remote setting at AstroPeak. We've built our network specifically to make remotely operating an ASIAIR as simple as possible.
How Does It Work?
Normally, ASIAIR is designed around controlling your telescope over a local network. That can present a challenge when your telescope is hundreds or thousands of miles away. At AstroPeak, we solve this using a WireGuard VPN tunnel. The VPN securely extends the AstroPeak network to your home network, allowing your phone, tablet, or computer to communicate with your telescope as though the ASIAIR were sitting at your house. Once configured, you can open the ASIAIR app and operate your remote telescope much like you normally would at home.
Do I Need a Mini PC?
If your system is completely controlled by ASIAIR, you generally don't need to add a Windows mini PC or Mac simply because you're moving to AstroPeak. You can continue using the ASIAIR workflow you're already familiar with, including imaging, guiding, autofocus, plate solving, filter changes, meridian flips, and automated plans.
That being said, if you want to, you can put an M-series Mac mini (one with an M1, M2, or M4 processor) on your pier and install the iPad version of the ASIAIR app on it. Then use remote desktop software like AnyDesk or Chrome Remote Desktop to access the Mac from home. The ASIAIR app will believe it's running on an iPad and will work just like the iPad app at home.
A Great Option for Simple Remote Systems
One of the biggest advantages of ASIAIR is simplicity. There are no Windows updates, drivers, remote-desktop applications, and software configurations to manage. Combined with AstroPeak's network and WireGuard VPN, it can make for a very clean remote imaging setup.
The goal is simple: your telescope may physically be at AstroPeak, but from a networking standpoint, we make it behave like it's sitting at home with you.