First time using an EQ Mount

[04Stefan07]

Took out the Skywatcher quickly just before. Despite the very poor conditions down here in Melbourne I wanted to learn a bit on how to use an EQ mount.

I am used to using a computerised mount so this was a whole new game for me. I watched tutorials and researched on how to do it but I am finding it very difficult. Should it be this difficult for my first time using this type of mount? I almost feel embarrassed by it. I learnt to look for the celestial pole using the following diagram.

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/c/cd/Pole01-eng.jpg

It was tricky to locate the southern cross due to the limited visibility tonight. I am hoping for clearer skies so I can give this another crack.

Maybe it is better that I practice this during the day on a distant object. I hope I am not the only one that found using an EQ2 mount for the first time difficult, especially since I am used to my 130 SLT computerised scope.

[Nikolas]

http://www.astronomyforum.net/australian-astronomy-forum/77261-polar-alignment-australia-southern-hemisphere.html

and
http://www.myastroshop.com.au/guides/polar-align-basic.pdf


Very helpful

[04Stefan07]

Thanks for that. Will have a read.

[04Stefan07]

There is something I do not quite understand about EQ mounts. Once you align it to the celestial pole are you able to (for example) rotate the telescope 180 and start using it or will it be out of alignment?

Also with balancing must it be balanced on all axis?

Sorry if this makes no sense or if I am using the wrong terms, still new to this.

Thanks.

[Nikolas]

you don't rotate the mount you let the mount rotate using the controllers after you have aligned it to the south.
the controllers direct the scope.
Yes balancing must be on both axes.
There are several youtube videos that show you how to balance a scope on a mount.

[MattT]

Welcome to the confusing world of Skywatcher EQ mounts. The best thing is to watch on you tube the 'Astronomy Shed' series on these mounts, the rest is trial and error....mostly error in my case :lol:

[04Stefan07]

I didn't even realised I was subscribed to his channel! Not bad tutorials but they are way to long and a bit confusing for a beginner.

I found these 2 great tutorials on how to align and use an EQ mount.

Align an EQ mount:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=plx6XXDgf2E

Using an EQ mount:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F7HVDKAZ6eM

[niko]

Stefan,

where abouts are you in Melbourne - happy to come over and give you a hand if you like

It's like learning to ride a bike - once you get the hang of it you're okay but it takes a while to learn all the tricks

niko
(Pascoe Vale)

[04Stefan07]

Cheers mate will keep that in mind!! :D