I have some questions regarding startup with an observatory based EQ8 (permanent installation).
We work quite a few school visits with our outreach progam. The Telescope operators are not always able to obtain good pointing results after a 2 or 3 star alignment.
Maybe they are not thourough in their setup process.
Assuming I have a perfect polar alignment, and am starting from park, using the Synscan hand controller, what is the simplest way for me to get good GOTO results?
AFTER the evening session is finished, and I park the scope and turn off the power. My work is done.
Next night, do I need to repeat the same procedure or can I continue with the same pointing data? Power has been turned off the previous night. Time is entered by hand.
I know I can use platesolving software and eliminate this problem, but the people working the presentation may not be capable of something that advanced in their eyes. I am talking about astronomers who are using methods from the 80's, when they were considered modern, and are set in their ways and not computer savvy. I don't mean to be condescinding or rude, but the truth is the equipment has become more advanced than the users.
Thanks for any help.
Jim