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Polar aligning
Hi all,
I'm new to polar aligning as I've just purchased an equatorial wedge for my LX90.
My question is: is it possible to align if Sigma Octans (or whichever star is closest to the pole) is not visible? Or, is it always visible? I tried aligning last night; I set my scope up with one leg of the tripod (behind me) facing north. I set the scope in the "home" position; declination of 90 degrees and RA pointing south. Everything looked to be in good order. However, when I tried aligning using AutoStar's Two Star method, the alignment stars were way off. I slewed in both axes to centre them (Sirius and Canopus). After I thought they were aligned, I got an alignment unsuccessful message. I'm positive this is because I had to slew in both axes a considerable amount.
Also, how do I read the latitude scale? Should my adjustment knobs be smack bang on 33 degrees? If that is not how it is done, then how is the angle to be measured? Do I draw an imaginary horizontal line from the top of the wedge, and then measure an angle of 33 degrees with the plate to the horizontal line?
It's cleared up and I'd dearly love to go out and set up the scope, but it takes too long. I might just do some binocular observing from my balcony.
Hopefully, if Kurnula gets the go ahead tonight, someone may be able to demonstrate to me how to set up my wedge properly and even align!
Thanks.
Regards,
Humayun
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