Hi Mardy,
I assume you're trying to align a computer/GOTO type telescope? Tell us all the make and model as another forum member may be able to help with more specifics answers, but in the meantime:
When you are talking telescope mounts, there are two types: Alt-azimuth and Equatorial (often called GEM or German Equatorial Mounts)
Alt-azimuth, short for
Altitude-azimuth, is a mount that swings around and around (Azimuth) and up and down (Altitude).
[quote]I think I have this correct.
Declination = Up and down with my scope
Right Assention = Left and right with my scope[quote]
Right Ascension and declination are the sky equivalent to Latitude and Longitude which we use on the Earth.
Quote:
Then the line that passes from North to South is the Meridian?
|
Spot on
The imaginary line in the sky which runs from due north, directly over your head , and then to due south is the Meridian. This is the highest point in the sky that any object can get to. For example, the Sun crosses the Meridian at Noon!
I know I didn't answer all of your questions, but other will chime in here, for sure.
Download a free copy of Stellarium (
http://stellarium.org/) - Set it up for your home location and turn on the coordinates. This will help you understand the relationship of the Declination and Right Ascension in the sky.