Although Windows 10 has a built-in RDP client (Remote Desktop Connection), the free MobaXterm program conveniently combines ssh tunneling and and RDP client. Please download and install the MobaXterm program here (download the Installer edition, unpack the .zip archive and double-click the .msi file). The following instructions are based on MobaXterm v12.4, but should be similar for other versions.

After starting MobaXterm, click on the Session icon to set up a new connection (see left image; click to enlarge).

In the new window, select to set up a new RDP session.

Under Remote host, enter the bach server name you want to connect to (e.g., bach1.strw.leidenuniv.nl), and enter your Leiden Observatory username. In general, leave any other settings on their default.

Click the Advanced Rdp settings tab, and set the Display size to anything else than Fit to terminal resolution (e.g., 1920×1080) and un-check Autoscale. Note that a different display size leads to a different session being started.

Click the Network settings tab and mark the box Connect through SSH gateway. In the Gateway SSH server box enter the same bach server name (e.g., bach1.strw.leidenuniv.nl), and as User enter your Leiden Observatory username.

Click the Bookmark settings tab, and set the Start session in option to Maximized detached tab.

Now click OK to save and start your new session. This brings forward a login box that asks for your Leiden Observatory password. Enter it and click OK. Starting the session opens either a new Linux desktop session on the selected server , or reconnects to an already running session. Any subsequent uses of MobaXterm allows you to select the saved session from the vertical Sessions tab or the Sessions menu.

If your password was entered wrong, or you pressed Cancel, the partially initiated session proceeds to a new screen where you can re-enter your password or you can confirm the cancellation of the session.

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