michaelmorris

The EQ8 is now installed on the observatory pier and the three scopes mounted and balanced.

I've spent a frustrating few hours trying to get the computer in the observatory to communicate with the mount via EQASCOM, but I eventually bent the damn computer to my will and the computer and mount are now chatting away merrily.

The next task is polar alignment, but that relies on some clear skies and it doesn't look like that will happen anytime soon.

Once it is polar aligned, the next job is to work out how far I can actually view/image things before the observatory walls get in the way.  Once I have that sorted, I can then try to work out the optimum height for the mount.  This will be a compromise between -

• minimising limitation of views by observatory walls
• making sure the eyepiece position isn't too high to view comfortably
• making sure the observatory roof will clear the scopes when it is opened and closed
• minimising glare from surrounding street lights and so-called security lights

My guess is that I'm going end up asking my mate Chris to build me a pier extension to raise the whole kit and caboodle (mount + counterweight + scopes = 1.34 solar masses) up by somewhere between 10 and 30 cm.