Autoguider

[E_ri_k]

Hey guys, I am looking at getting an autoguider for my setup. I have never used one before. My mount is pretty well polar aligned at the moment, however I was thinking. How essential is polar alignment if you are using an autoguider?

Can you just set up your scope anywhere and find a guide star and the mount will track?

Cheers.

[Merlin66]

Your scope need to be pretty well polar aligned to give good images.

The guiding only keeps one star "locked on" - if your polar alignment is poor, then all the the other stars will appear to rotate (field rotation) around the guide star image.

HTH

[E_ri_k]

Righto, think I know what you mean. It needs to plug into a PC too doesn't it? and the PC controls the mount?

[Merlin66]

Yes, that's the favourite method.

I use a QHY5 guide camera fitted to a ST80, mounted piggyback.

The camera has a direct connect ST-4 guide cable to the guide port (ST-4) on the mount. The usb from the camera goes to the PC, and I run PHD software which does all the smart stuff...sends the "corrections" back up the usb to the camera which then "talks" directly to the mount....majic.

[E_ri_k]

Nice, thought that's how it worked! I am saving up for a:Orion Awesom Autoguider Package

Looks like a good deal.

[Merlin66]

Check out the prices on the QHY5 and SW ST80 - may work out cheaper....

[E_ri_k]

Looks like a nice camera. I will see what works out best. Thanks for that link.

[Nathan_Pembs]

The QHY5 is pretty much the exact same camera as the Orion one, just a different colour and costs alot less

[E_ri_k]

Thanks Nathan, yeah I compared the Specs between the two. Seem very similar. Even though it's more expensive I like the fact it all comes as one package. Haven't made up my mind yet.