Quote:
Originally Posted by barx1963
Couple of points. The smartphone solution sounds nice but it has some drawbacks.
Firstly, it would need to be accurately aligned to the optical axis of the scope. This could be achieved using an adjustable bracket, pointing the scope at a bright star and then moving the bracket until that bright star appears on the screen. Secondly, I have my doubts about the accuracy of the methods used in smartphones to detect position. Thirdly (and this is my min point) successful observation is deeply dependent upon dark adaption, I have tried using smartphones and tablets at the scope and the dimming and redlight programs they use still leave the screen way too bright. You could cover the screen but that means that you cannot use the phone anyway.
With the circles and inclinometer system the main issue is making sure the base is securely level. If you think about it, a slightly tilted base will make the alt readings meaningless as you move from object to object.
I have used Argo Navis for a couple of years now and can attest to it's simplicity, ease of use, well though out design, excellent product support ( on more than one occasion I have rung Gary with questions and he has happily answered them and gone above and beyond to help me) and accuracy. You don't have to worry about level bases, the screen is suitably dim, it is flexible and Aussie made!
Yes it is not a cheap solution, but that first night when you set it up and go looking to an object and it pops it into the middle of your eyepice it feels like $$$ well spent.
Malcolm
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Sure, a smartphone solution will never be as accurate as dedicated hardware, but I would STRONGLY suggest people give SkEye or similar apps a try on their manual scope before investing in a costly GoTo or PushTo kit. After all, the basic version is free, so what have you got to lose? The paid version is only $10, and adds a bigger database, including comets and satellites.
SkEye doesn't use the camera for alignment - you strap your phone or tablet to your scope tube in any convenient manner (e. g. a mounting bracket, Velcro, elastic band, whatever), then you align your telescope on a known object, and tell the app where the Scope is pointing. The app then uses your phone's compass and accelerometers to detect changes in altitude and azimuth to point you to new targets, or tell you what you are looking at. Modern smartphone sensors are surprisingly accurate, especially for detecting differences rather than absolute positions, a fraction of a degree difference is easily attainable. Don't dismiss the capabilities of these sensors until you try them! If you move around the sky a lot, it may be necessary to re-align the app from time to time, but it only takes a few seconds.
Secondly, in night mode, it uses a very dull red display, so dark adaptation isn't affected either.
Well worth a look! If you like what it does, you may want to buy a more expensive and accurate PushTo or GoTo kit, but most beginners will get a lot out of just using the app.