Tracking Dob

[PSALM19.1 (Shaun)]

So...can you fit a tracking device to a 16" Meade Lightbridge?

[astronut (John)]

Yes you can.

Either a tracking platform, or you can install a servo cat system + an Argo Navis.

The platform will track an object (that you've found) and hold it in view for up to an hour.

The servo cat & Argo will find the object and then track to keep it in the FOV.
Platform approx $1500.
Servo cat/Argo approx $3000.

[glend (Glen)]

There are other more 'open' ways to drive Servocat goto systems, one is to use the Astro Devices wifi Nexus box with any Android tablet running Sky Safari app, the Nexus will drive the Servocat and you will get good skyview pictorial of what's going on, and it is uch lower cost than Argo Navis. I use Sky Safari and Nexus wifi in Pushto model on my 16" and it works great, says locked for hours, and is easy to use. Astro Devices also has a bluetooth box that will interface encoders. if your going to automate your scope I would suggest starting with a Pushto system, as this will give you the encoders, and app connectivity and its a great novice learning tool - you can add Servocat later if you wish. Btw there is a new Servocat Jr for smaller scopes that is lower cost.

[PSALM19.1 (Shaun)]

Thanks guys; reason I'm asking is that I can get a 12" Orion with goto and tracking for about 1800 but am interested (outlined in previous posts) in 16" as well....mmmm