I've recently gotten into AstroPlanner (AP) to get more order and less randomness into my observing sessions, and maybe even take some observing notes. Although the Argo has Tour modes, it doesn't have as comprehensive options as AP of course.
I've only had one 'real' session hooking up AP to the Argo, and had a ball even though it was a Moon-lit, smoky Melbourne night
I even got the horizon feature set up, using the scope to point out my horizon in real time! Only took me about 20 min I guess and now AP can accurately avoid sky that I can't actually see. As long as I always observe from the same spot of course..
I really like AP's features and general usability, with some caveats such as 'flashing' of some of the user interface elements, such as the real-time indicator showing which way to move your scope (up/down, clockwise/counter-clockwise). That readout could update a little more quickly too, but it's ok. I usually go by that to 'rough-guide', then use the Argo to home in. I couldn't seem to get the argo to read the current object though, via Mode Catalog/From Planetarium. Any tips?
I also like the FOV feature, but I don't seem to get enough stars in the view for my liking. In the manual, the screen shots show many more stars in the field. I'm not sure if it's due to some preferences relating to limiting magnitude, or similar. I guess I'd just like the FOV to look a bit more like 'what I see' through my EP. I also lke the way it suggests the optimal eyepiece for the object you're viewing (from the list of your own EP's that you've set up).
The 'Get DSS image' feature is great too. Obtaining an actual photo of the object in real time (i.e. over wireless network to the internet) is a buzz.
They're some of my initial observations of this great package. I'd love to hear from those of you who use AP, with or without an Argo Navis. While experience is the best teacher, it would be great to get some 'best practices' to get me going even faster so as not to waste those rare clear nights!
All comments and opinions welcome.
