Hi all,
Well here I am still slowly setting up with the eventual aim of doing some photography.
What I think I need is and auto guider and some improved or better quality drive motors that will work with an early Auto Star Goto system.
The current Meade motors while working as a drive will commonly give a motor fault error when trying to slew a long way.
Not having a large budget to work with I'm looking for advice on some updated parts to use with what I already have and an auto guider that will also fit the system.
I have no problems in making parts to adapt things to fit as I have the necessary tools and machinery and don't mind doing electronics mods I'm also quite happy with computer interfacing.
My system as it stands today is as follows.
OTA is an early Meade 8" SCT age unknown but in very good condition.
I had been told when I bought it that it was twenty five years old, after looking at it I think it sat under someone's bed for at least half that time if it's true as the condition belies it's age.
Recently added a focuser and a 2x 2" barlow
Mount is a Vixen Super Polaris EQ also in fairly good condition.
Drive system is a Meade Auto Star adapted to fit the Polaris mount.
This is all on top of a movable pier that I built as the above kit of bits previous owner had it on a concrete pier.
So the guidance I need (excuse the pun) is how to guide this on a budget and what if any motors would work with the Meade system and improve the drive.
Is it worth spending a few dollars on?
Any help would be grateful.
Nico.