MikesStars

I have a StarSense system fitted to my Skywatcher EQ5 Scope and have just completed a bit of hobby electronics with a raspberry Pi that collects and displays GPS time and location. It would be really neat for me if I could use the time generated on my Raspberry Pi as input to initiation of the Celestron StarSense system each time I switch it on instead of feeding it in manually (even neater if I could input Latitude/Longtitude as well but will leave that for a later project). I am aware or have read that StarSense does have the ability to take input from the RTC on some mounts so this aught to be an achievable aim. Could anybody help me with or point me to: 1) How to make the hardware interface between the Raspberry and StarSense; I assume that this could be as simple as taking a USB from the RPi and plugging into the spare AUX-3 port on the StarSense hub but would like some reassurance on this connection so as not to do damage. 2) What protocols and formats do I need create for the StarSense to request time and the RPI to send the RTC time. Many thanks

Thanks Julian, yes I see them now and will go down that route unless I hear of a source for completed leads (which is probably like finding hens teeth). Mike

I have an EQ5 Pro mount with a 200mm Sky Watcher Reflector Scope. I have been getting fed up with the bottom of my scope obstructing against the top of mount when being moved automatically so have now bitten the bullet and ordered the 16" Sky Watcher extension tube for which I am awaiting arrival. In anticipation though I have been thinking through that this is going to give another problem in that the length of cable between motors and controller will now be too short and have therefore been looking through the options so that I am ready for that next clear night! I had thought about making my own cables but I don't seem to be able to find anybody selling right angled 8 pin din plugs and I think it does need to be right angled; similarly I don't seem to find anybody selling complete cables with the right combination of 8 pin din. I wondered what other of you do and If there is some good place where these could be purchased from? Thanks Mike