Polar Align
Polar Align
How do we polar align when we can't see polaris, since using a compass doesn't work that good.
Hi!
A compass works pretty well actually. That's called a 'rough' polar alignment. By setting the latitude and pointing to compass north, you'll find that it is good enough for visual observing.
For accurate polar alignment, we use a method called drift alignment, which basically tracks the motion of stars through the eyepiece and compensates according to the direction that they drift. Search the web for 'drift alignment' and you'll find the information you need.
Cheers!
Chris
A compass works pretty well actually. That's called a 'rough' polar alignment. By setting the latitude and pointing to compass north, you'll find that it is good enough for visual observing.
For accurate polar alignment, we use a method called drift alignment, which basically tracks the motion of stars through the eyepiece and compensates according to the direction that they drift. Search the web for 'drift alignment' and you'll find the information you need.
Cheers!
Chris
- neoterryjoe
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- Joined: Sun Nov 14, 2004 12:15 pm
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- Location: je ( 1.34, 103.73 )
Hi!
You can check heavens above site for more accurate coordinates of your place. And yes, it is 1 degree and something(depending on your location)
www.heavens-above.com
You can check heavens above site for more accurate coordinates of your place. And yes, it is 1 degree and something(depending on your location)
www.heavens-above.com