SingAstro

# Don't know how to attach a file. So here goes the py script. # !!! The forum automatically removes the indent spaces for the code lines :(( Be aware. You need to add those spaces back for the script to run properly. # -*- coding: utf-8 -*- # Image blinking for quick alignment of scope view with a ...

I probably spent too much time on the writing here. Just wished it could be of help to some of the other equatorial-region users of EQ mounts. But with all the above posts, it has become straightforward to implement the techniques in the PA practices. So it is time to just quickly revisit the steps ...

Before moving on to quick and easy GOTO-based alignment, let's examine the theory and assumptions. This is clear: your GOTO will be absolutely accurate provided all the three things are absolutely accurate at the same time A. Your leveled RA zero position B. The GOTO function C. Your PA alignment Th...

We need to stay reasonable when expecting precision target. Is 1-arcsec precision a reasonable target? I doubt it. 1-arcsec is a mere ~4.5mm lateral distance across the view at a distance of 1KM. Would your scope be able to stay spot on such a small visual/image feature? Considering there are atmosp...

Now let's get started with determining the mount RA axis in the polar scope. Get ready some handy tools: a tubular spirit level (mine is a cheap $3 one and when combined with my mediocre vision, produces >2.4arcmin sensitivity to tilt), and of course a computer. Before you move on, make sure the scr...

Precision is all about fighting errors here and there. So here is a quick check on some of the errors I can measure/estimate on my system. The polar scope. I have measured the pixel size and determined that each pixel is about ~32.73". Roughly half of arcmin. This seems quite good (using advanc...

As mentioned earlier, the idea is as simple as aligning the EQ mount with reference to terrestrial objects instead of a celestial one. This logically leads to the questions: How do we determine (measure) where my EQ mount is pointing? How do we determine (measure) where the celestial pole is with re...

Before I move on to writing the theory and practices, let me report on the first night test on May 20, on the roof of an HDB block with a nice unblocked view towards the north pole. It was smoother than expected when I set up and aligned the gears. After two adjustments using Acturus and Spica, the ...

I am going to write down my attempt at quick and easy polar alignment in Singapore. Clear night skies are luxurious here and no one wants to waste extra time on polar alignment especially if you don't have a fixed telescope setup. The purpose is not only to save myself (others alike) from the PA pai...

Looking for an extra counterweight >=4.5Kg for my EQ mount.

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