Three Star alignment

[Gerry D]

Hi All,

This is my first post and question.  I've only been doing this for a few months and I want to ask about the proper procedure to complete a three star alignment.  It is my understanding that before you begin that the scope and mount must be in the "home position" everything in alignment  and pointing North.  I also understand that Polar Alignment is more critical than the three star alignment.  I order to do a proper polar alignment the scope must be rotated to view through the polar scope and set the reticle in the proper position.  So after you complete the polar alignment, you have to put the scope and mount back in the home position to do the three star alignment.  That being said, will moving the scope back to the home position ruin the polar alignment, or should you shut down the mount, move to the home position and then do the three star alignment.  I hope this makes sense and I explained my question good enough to get an answer.

 

Thank you, Gerry D 

Edited April 21, 2019 by Gerry D

[PeterCPC]

It would help if you told us what mount you are using.

Peter

[Anthonyexmouth]

The adjustment for polar alignment and star alignment use different parts on the mount. If you've done the polar alignment correctly then anything after that with star alignment can't change the polar alignment. 

Edited April 22, 2019 by Anthonyexmouth

[jambouk]

The starting position of the mount is generally not that important, though depends on the mount you are using.

 

[Owmuchonomy]

..and if you can tell us if you are observing or imaging?

[Gerry D]

Chris, currently I'm observing because I'm learning the proper techniques of the mount and telescope, but in the very near future (I hope) to start imaging.  I currently am using my Canon DSLR 70D but am considering on purchasing a dedicated imaging camera.  I'm looking at the Orion Star Shooter G4 camera as a purchase.

Thank you for your input.

[david_taurus83]

What mount do you have?