Illuminated reticles

[OneCosmos]

Increasingly when I set my EQ8 and telescope up somewhere new I have started using the built in polar alignment routine, centering the alignment stars using the illuminated reticle from an old guidescope, combined with a 4x powermate. I reckon it gets me close enough without the problem of needing a computer screen near me during this part of the setup. It is also disturbing for other people. Performing alignment using an eyepiece is way easier, more intuitive and even enjoyable.

Accuracy would be even better though if I could find a very short focal length EP that was also had an illuminated reticle. As far as I can tell though all the ones that exist are of a medium focal length - 10mm or 12mm - and I suspect that is what mine is. I don't need it to have any optical quality I just want magnification. I want a 3 or 4mm. Does anyone make such a short illuminated eyepiece?

Chris

[Kunama]

The only one I know is the LG5mm Takahashi but it ain't cheap !!! About $375 from Japan

[OneCosmos]

Thanks. Just checked in Australia that is $515 and I don't even know how much more accurate polar alignment would be! If I knew for certain it would be significantly improved it may yet be worth it. Perhaps I'll put a wanted add😉

[Atmos]

I personally don't think it would make that much of a difference.

What they need to do is make a zoom reticule EP ;)

[ausastronomer]

Image shift of the reticle could be a problem in such a beast unless it was a very high quality one.

Image shift of the reticle has been a problem that has plagued variable power rifle scopes for over 50 years. In other words with say a 4 to 12 x 50 variable scope the crosshairs have a different point of aim at 4x to what they do at 12x. The high end variables from Japan, Germany and the USA have pretty much got this sorted in more recent years, to the point where it isn't an issue at all. These riflescopes aren't cheap. I wouldn't trust a cheap variable even today.

Cheers
John B

[Kunama]

The other problem is that not all reticle eyepieces are created equal...

I bought a TS-Optics 20mm Crosshair 70° ERFLE to try out, the crosshairs were lovely and clear just not in the centre of the eyepiece. Rotating the eyepiece in the focuser scribed a circle half the moon's diameter.....

I did remove the eyecup and nosepiece before the rest went into the bin.....

[Steffen]

The 9mm Meade Plössl has an adjustable reticle, so the crosshairs can be centred as perfectly as one requires.

[Wilso]

I use the Meade illuminated 9mm cross hair recticle which has adjustable cross hairs
Using the nexus Dsc can get .02 alignment accuracy using a two star alignment without too much trouble. Highly recommend

[OneCosmos]

Excellent. I will acquire you one of these. Thanks.