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Old 30-05-2017, 12:28 AM
astro744
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astro744 is offline
 
Join Date: Apr 2007
Posts: 1,244
See https://www.assa.org.au/resources/eq...lar-alignment/

http://www.minorplanet.info/ObsGuide...rAlignment.htm

(Follow rules for Southern Hemisphere #1 & #2)

Ensure that the base of your EQ head is level. Note the azimuth of the base should be geographic N-S not magnetic so if using a compass allow for the magnetic deviation. The altitude should be set to your latitude with the polar axis pointing to the SCP.

No 'electronics' needed just RA motor engaged at sidereal rate and and illuminated crosshair eyepiece. Align crosshairs so they point N-S/E-W. Easily done by switching off motor drive briefly. If double crosshair centre star in box, if single crosshair defocus star and centre crosshair on it. May need slightly brighter star if using defocused image.

Once you have aligned mark the position of the tripod feet on the ground so that next time it is quicker to do and don't adjust any altitude and azimuth knobs in the meantime as they will be set for your location with only the slightest tweak if needed.
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