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Old 08-06-2019, 07:49 AM
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Tinderboxsky (Steve)
I can see clearly now ...

Tinderboxsky is offline
 
Join Date: Feb 2012
Location: Kingston TAS
Posts: 1,031
Agreed.
It also pays to have everything set up and ready well before the expected solar noon time. If one is using a long shadow line, it is surprising how quickly the shadow moves. One needs to be ready to seize the moment and note the exact point. If not, in an instant, the shadow has moved on.
Experience speaking here! In my rush at the time, I missed the moment. At least the Sun came up again the next day and all was good.

Quote:
Originally Posted by Startrek View Post
Just a reminder , if anyone decides to use the solar noon shadow method to find true south then make sure you are as accurate as you can with your solar noon timing, levelling and measuring
Check wooden dowel is standing 90 deg on all directions NSEW
Mark line on ground in centre of shadow at exactly solar noon
Mark line on ground in centre of shadow as accurately as possible

The more care you take with these steps , the closer you will be to True South and therefore ensure a good starting point for polar aligning your mount.
Cheers
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