Arduino dust cover for scopes, is there one out there?

[Astroman (Andrew Wall)]

Hi all,

Just curious to know if there is a Arduino controlled telescope dust cover that can be automatically closed when the scope is not being used? So darks or bias frames could be taken. Also controllable via Ascom maybe, similar to the Alnitak Flip-Flap device.

Thanks.

[asozio]

Andrew, did you have any luck finding something suitable?

[Astroman (Andrew Wall)]

Originally Posted by asozio

Andrew, did you have any luck finding something suitable?

I haven't had a good look yet, been automating my Observatory so this was put on hold until that is complete. I did manage to do the light box controller but not the actual dust cover yet. I will probably look into it in the next month or so.

Thread for the Flats controller if interested. I used an Arduino and a MOS shield.

http://www.iceinspace.com.au/forum/s...d.php?t=172621

[xa-coupe (Jeff)]

I thought of an EFW with a solid 'filter' to block out all the light. I want to set my stuff up for an overnight session and have it do the calibration frames before it parks itself and turns itself off.

[Astroman (Andrew Wall)]

Originally Posted by xa-coupe

I thought of an EFW with a solid 'filter' to block out all the light. I want to set my stuff up for an overnight session and have it do the calibration frames before it parks itself and turns itself off.

It's a good idea and one I had thought of. I actually thought of converting a manual filter wheel to a motorised one as another project in the future.

[mswhin63 (Malcolm)]

There are a couple I have been looking at that appear to be DIY only. They seem to have drivers modified for INDI and Ekos. I also wish to automate this not only for covering but for taking darks as well.

This one appears to be a bit rough and ready but am sure it can be easily cleaned up if required. It appears that Arduino switching is quite common.