daz

Ah...... I didn't get that far back in the thread I had errors with the 4200 and 4201 index files - so I removed them and that error went away! I could then solve the test images However, with my own images I could not get a solve. In the end I uploaded to Nova and solved them, then downloaded the WCS files and finally got a solution. I need to play a lot more and see what the right settings are for the DSLR/Lens (I was using my 600D/18-55 lens and tried at 18mm and somewhere near to 30mm). Even with the solved file on Nova so I could get the image scale, I still could not get a local solve to work... Still, progress

OK, more testing.... I have run PPA.py from the cmd line to see what the output looks like, and it looks like I have some issues!! When I try and locally I get an error about not being able to load tables from the index files - so I need to check into that.. When I try and solve via Nova, I get an error than ujson cannot be found by TKinter... I might do a re-install of Anaconda just to be sure....

Ok have installed Anaconda and the PPA software. Have registered with Nova so I have an API key. I also configured the local server settings as well... I selected the V image and hit Nova but it is just sat there saying 'solving image'. I went onto Nova and uploaded the image and it solved in a few seconds... Have I missed something? Apologies for brevity. Am on the phone 4g cos my broadband is playing up!

OK cool. Off to grab it now. And I need Anaconda? Will that break my existing Python 2.7 install? Not overly worried, as I can just reconfigure my Eclipse IDE to point to the Anaconda installation if it does...

Themos - just landed here from the AlignMaster question.... Do I understand that provided I can get my local astrometry server to solve an image from my DSLR, PPA should be fine?

I read this blog with interest - and a level of envy!! I am terrible at planning my imaging sessions, and I suspect like many others, don't know what I will be doing until I switch the computer on!! I really must get better at planning my images, and perhaps this will be a good nudge in the right direction!! Look forward to the final result - but the 17hr interim looks pretty tasty!!

Indeed. I shall be upgrading my version at home in the next few days and then start testing with my AAG. It will be sometime before I get to automate the roof, but something like a loud hailer going off will be just fine for now :D

OK, whizzed down ASCOM and installed... Once you have set up the equipment profile, go to your sequence. On the right hand side is the equipment to connect - Camera, Filter, Focuser and Telescope. Underneath is a thin button with an arrow. Click this and an additional panel opens to allow you to select other equipment: Flat Box, Rotator, Observatory, Weather Station. You then click the spanner to set the parameters - I don't have the driver for the AAG installed, so can't see these.

Steve It's in the latest version... Tools -> Equipment Profile Manager -> Other There is now an option for weather station... I don't have ASCOM or the AAG installed on this machine, so can't help with any other settings at the moment...

Steve, I'll distract Jane with Hog Roast and wine, while you mumble about a needed IP-thingy that Daz says you need... I have broad shoulders Do I assume that the definitions of 'clear' or 'dark' are set within the AAG application? (I have yet to install & play with mine...)

Steve You may want to also consider something like http://www.scorptec.com.au/product/Networking_-_Wired/IP_Power/38561-9258HP for the remote management of power.. (sorry to add to your cost base!) Also, a good thread here which may have some other nuggets... http://www.iceinspace.com.au/forum/archive/index.php/t-108878.html And I have just acquired the cloud watcher so will be interested in findings from you and others... HTH

Thanks Mike

Does anyone know where to get things like replacement EQ6 counterweight bolts - with the nylon end?

It will certainly be an issue at your end Mark - works OK for everybody, pretty much. Works for me on my PC, tablet and Linux box at work

Looks like you've figured it out :)

You'd be better off asking questions in the forum, not on your blog!

Yes, BAS, mine, SGL...

Feature request.... Could you do a mini-panel that can be grabbed from another site? So, I could have a link to my location for (say) current day just showing the coloured boxes, which then links to the full, feature-rich site?

Car lights will certainly be frowned on after dark, even at a small party. If you absolutely have to open the car, call 'LIGHTS IN 3,2,1' before doing so.... White lights in the tent is also a no-no. You don't have to cover EVERY white light, especially if they are dim ones, but the bright ones, certainly. Lighters are fine. People tend to leave scopes out, but pack away expensive eyepieces/laptops/cameras etc. It's harder to run off with a C8 in your pocket!! Best advice is to get involved - talk to people, ask questions, etc. If you stay in your tent on your own, it won't be as much fun!