I've done a bit more tinkering, and I think this will be the initial arrangement when I finally get my Baader fittings to connect and focus the camera. Its not a very good photo, I know... I overestimated the depth of field I could achieve at such close range
. I've just used the 1.25" adapter from the Vixen flip mirror to mock this up for the time being.
I know... the controls are facing the scope, but its a compromise
. The scope is going to be pointing up, so the controls will be pointing up too. It saves me from having to get down on the floor to read slit and micrometer scales as long as I'm prepared to move around the scope a bit to see them. At least that's the theory
.
This arrangement keeps the micrometer close under my ED80, and also keeps my ST8 low and close, making balancing easier, without being too likely to crash near zenith.
The proof will be in the pudding, of course
.
I have a velcro safety strap for the L200, but I need to make one for the ST8 itself as it may spent a reasonable amount of time upside down or close to it. I'll make a tab to fit the 1/4"-20 tripod mount with a thumb screw
.
I have also ordered a beam splitter plate to do Ken's mod on the Vixen flip mirror to turn it into a 70/30 beam splitter
.
I can't wait! ...but I have to!!!
Al.