Quote:
Originally Posted by AstralTraveller
I've used various GoTo systems but not this one. However ...
- the scope must be on a hard, reasonably level, surface. If the grass allows the mount to move the system cannot compensate.
- centre each alignment star in the main scope. Use the highest magnification you have. If you put the star well out of focus, so it is a large donut, it is easier to judge when it is in the centre of the field of view
- I use at least 5 alignment stars to help average out errors, except with the Geminii II where I use 5 for the the east alignment and 5 on the west.
- therefore you can't avoid learning the brighter stars and constellations. I can align my dobs (5 stars) in about 2 minutes
- on a dobs I expect that your GoTo pointing error will be >10', so locate the object with your low power ep and then increase mag as necessary
- don't rely on small internal batteries. The cold will kill them. Even with the Argo Navis (push to - no motors) I can't get more than about 4hrs from brand new batteries at my dark sky site in winter. With the Geminii a dying battery won't kill the scope but it will behave 'screwy'. I've spent some frustrating hours calling myself names before I found that the problem was the battery
- it's easier to learn and practice this stuff by yourself rather than with an expectant audience looking over your shoulder
enjoy the journey
David |
Thanks David,
I am still fine tuning this whole process, but a Firmware upgrade has significantly helped, as well as providing a beefier power source.
I managed a couple of hours of completely uninterrupted, failure-free viewing over the weekend. I definitely need to improve the levelling of the scope, and I haven't quite mastered finishing with an Up and a Right, but we are definitely getting there.
I also took your advice and used a 10mil for my alignments.
In fact, I left the 10 mil in the whole time. The slewing was still a bit off, but it does feel like progress.
Appreciate the advice ....