I very much experienced this not knowing what's good as a beginner. It was only after taking my first and only CS class that I found direction and made a road map for concepts. Since then, I have taught myself much more than that class delivered. Before, I was able to teach myself but there was no sense of understanding what information was useful, as you described. It gave me the necessary boost to get started.
The space race to put a man on Mars is no longer international. It's completely domestic, between NASA and SpaceX. NASA's SLS (Space Launch System) versus SpaceX's BFR (Big Falcon Rocket) is an interesting comparison to examine. Both look promising despite the numerous possible setbacks. Looking forward to upcoming information regarding the manned launches to Mars.
Your solution is simple. However, it doesn't allow for as much modification as the original poster's idea. With his idea it could be modified in so many ways to add functionality because it wouldn't be limited by the technology. The solution you supplied will eventually be limited by the technology if the original poster wants to add other functions.
I was shooting with a d800 200mm lens, no filter. There is no visible sensor damage, both when examining images and the sensor itself. I have to check out the lens. I left it on the sun for a good 20 minutes in live view but there doesn't seem to be any damage. Thoughts?