Date   

Re: Orthogonality question

Greg Salyer
 

I’ve been trying to understand why PoleMaster isn’t working for me. It seems like the procedure would insure that the mount is correctly aligned but the scope itself could still be off a bit due to cone error since the procedure doesn’t involve the scope. What am I missing?

Greg

On Nov 1, 2019, at 1:09 PM, uncarollo2 <chris1011@...> via Groups.Io <chris1011@...> wrote:


I believe Pole Master works regardless of cone error.

Roland



-----Original Message-----
From: Greg Salyer <astronutcase@...>
To: main <main@ap-gto.groups.io>
Sent: Fri, Nov 1, 2019 11:59 am
Subject: Re: [ap-gto] Orthogonality question

Sounds great. I've never been able to get PoleMaster to work. The best I can do is about 8' off (so I use PEMPro). Do you think it could be because of Cone Error?
 
Greg
 
From: main@ap-gto.groups.io [mailto:main@ap-gto.groups.io] On Behalf Of uncarollo2 <chris1011@...> via Groups.Io
Sent: Friday, November 1, 2019 12:29 PM
To: main@ap-gto.groups.io
Subject: Re: [ap-gto] Orthogonality question
 
Cone error correction. There is an easy way to detect it. In this new keypad routine, you simply go to a star on one side of the meridian, center it and press Recal. Then send the mount to a star the other side of the meridian with the same or similar Dec, center it and press Recal. The cone error is extracted and set in the servo. From then on any time you flip sides the cone error will be compensated. The only place where this cannot work is around the poles because it is a physical impossibility.
 
Roland
 
 
 
-----Original Message-----
From: Greg Salyer <astronutcase@...>
To: main <main@ap-gto.groups.io>
Sent: Fri, Nov 1, 2019 11:15 am
Subject: Re: [ap-gto] Orthogonality question
Cone error correction? or detection?
 
Greg
 
From: main@ap-gto.groups.io [mailto:main@ap-gto.groups.io] On Behalf Of uncarollo2 <chris1011@...> via Groups.Io
Sent: Friday, November 1, 2019 12:02 PM
To: main@ap-gto.groups.io
Subject: Re: [ap-gto] Orthogonality question
 
We will have a cone error correction in our upcoming keypad software.
 
Roland
 
 
 
-----Original Message-----
From: Greg Salyer <astronutcase@...>
To: main <main@ap-gto.groups.io>
Sent: Fri, Nov 1, 2019 10:14 am
Subject: Re: [ap-gto] Orthogonality question
Another name for orthogonality error is cone error. Site https://www.sharpcap.co.uk/conesharp has a good description of the problem and software to measure it. Apparently some mounts do allow an adjustment to correct for it. If you search for cone error I'm sure you will find more.
 
Greg
 
From: main@ap-gto.groups.io [mailto:main@ap-gto.groups.io] On Behalf Of Andrew Jones
Sent: Friday, November 1, 2019 10:16 AM
To: main@ap-gto.groups.io
Subject: Re: [ap-gto] Orthogonality question
 
Suresh, I also have a couple of questions about Orthogonality error (OE). I hope you don’t mind me jumping in on this thread.

Can OE lead to issues with Guiding? I have continued to struggle to dial in my guiding and keep the total RMS error below 1.00. It is usually closer to 1.20 arc minutes. I have tried using the PHD2 settings recommended in a previous post by Rolando, and although they did help, I still struggle with guiding my Mach1 with a TEC140 attached (with or without an APPM pointing model). According my PemPro my polar alignment is +/- 2 arc mins. So, I suspect the issue is caused by OE. I am not that familiar with OE or how to correct for it.
 
Is OE something that can be detected by PemPro? It seems like that would be the right tool for the job. My rig is used solely for imaging, so I am looking for an imaging solution to help identify and recommend the OE adjustments that need to be made to correct for it.  I have seen instructions where it ask to point the OTA towards zenith on one side of the pier, then set a 1-hour meridian delay and slew to the same spot on the other side of the pier. The problem I have is that with the TEC140 and my imaging gear, I am almost hitting the pier when the scope is pointed at Zenith. So, setting a 1-hour meridian delay (which I assume means a weights up position) is not really a good option. Finally, is the best option to adjust for OE to put strips of cut up soda cans in the saddle to push the back end of the scope one way or the other? I am surprised someone has not produced a saddle that has OE adjustments built in. The Soda can method does not seem like an easily repeatable process.
 
Anyway, as I have never had to adjust for OE, I am looking for advice on the best way to go about detecting it and then fixing it on the Mach1. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Andrew J


Re: Orthogonality question

Roland Christen
 

I believe Pole Master works regardless of cone error.

Roland



-----Original Message-----
From: Greg Salyer <astronutcase@...>
To: main <main@ap-gto.groups.io>
Sent: Fri, Nov 1, 2019 11:59 am
Subject: Re: [ap-gto] Orthogonality question

Sounds great. I've never been able to get PoleMaster to work. The best I can do is about 8' off (so I use PEMPro). Do you think it could be because of Cone Error?
 
Greg
 
From: main@ap-gto.groups.io [mailto:main@ap-gto.groups.io] On Behalf Of uncarollo2 <chris1011@...> via Groups.Io
Sent: Friday, November 1, 2019 12:29 PM
To: main@ap-gto.groups.io
Subject: Re: [ap-gto] Orthogonality question
 
Cone error correction. There is an easy way to detect it. In this new keypad routine, you simply go to a star on one side of the meridian, center it and press Recal. Then send the mount to a star the other side of the meridian with the same or similar Dec, center it and press Recal. The cone error is extracted and set in the servo. From then on any time you flip sides the cone error will be compensated. The only place where this cannot work is around the poles because it is a physical impossibility.
 
Roland
 
 
 
-----Original Message-----
From: Greg Salyer <astronutcase@...>
To: main <main@ap-gto.groups.io>
Sent: Fri, Nov 1, 2019 11:15 am
Subject: Re: [ap-gto] Orthogonality question
Cone error correction? or detection?
 
Greg
 
From: main@ap-gto.groups.io [mailto:main@ap-gto.groups.io] On Behalf Of uncarollo2 <chris1011@...> via Groups.Io
Sent: Friday, November 1, 2019 12:02 PM
To: main@ap-gto.groups.io
Subject: Re: [ap-gto] Orthogonality question
 
We will have a cone error correction in our upcoming keypad software.
 
Roland
 
 
 
-----Original Message-----
From: Greg Salyer <astronutcase@...>
To: main <main@ap-gto.groups.io>
Sent: Fri, Nov 1, 2019 10:14 am
Subject: Re: [ap-gto] Orthogonality question
Another name for orthogonality error is cone error. Site https://www.sharpcap.co.uk/conesharp has a good description of the problem and software to measure it. Apparently some mounts do allow an adjustment to correct for it. If you search for cone error I'm sure you will find more.
 
Greg
 
From: main@ap-gto.groups.io [mailto:main@ap-gto.groups.io] On Behalf Of Andrew Jones
Sent: Friday, November 1, 2019 10:16 AM
To: main@ap-gto.groups.io
Subject: Re: [ap-gto] Orthogonality question
 
Suresh, I also have a couple of questions about Orthogonality error (OE). I hope you don’t mind me jumping in on this thread.

Can OE lead to issues with Guiding? I have continued to struggle to dial in my guiding and keep the total RMS error below 1.00. It is usually closer to 1.20 arc minutes. I have tried using the PHD2 settings recommended in a previous post by Rolando, and although they did help, I still struggle with guiding my Mach1 with a TEC140 attached (with or without an APPM pointing model). According my PemPro my polar alignment is +/- 2 arc mins. So, I suspect the issue is caused by OE. I am not that familiar with OE or how to correct for it.
 
Is OE something that can be detected by PemPro? It seems like that would be the right tool for the job. My rig is used solely for imaging, so I am looking for an imaging solution to help identify and recommend the OE adjustments that need to be made to correct for it.  I have seen instructions where it ask to point the OTA towards zenith on one side of the pier, then set a 1-hour meridian delay and slew to the same spot on the other side of the pier. The problem I have is that with the TEC140 and my imaging gear, I am almost hitting the pier when the scope is pointed at Zenith. So, setting a 1-hour meridian delay (which I assume means a weights up position) is not really a good option. Finally, is the best option to adjust for OE to put strips of cut up soda cans in the saddle to push the back end of the scope one way or the other? I am surprised someone has not produced a saddle that has OE adjustments built in. The Soda can method does not seem like an easily repeatable process.
 
Anyway, as I have never had to adjust for OE, I am looking for advice on the best way to go about detecting it and then fixing it on the Mach1. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Andrew J


Re: Orthogonality question

Greg Salyer
 

Sounds great. I've never been able to get PoleMaster to work. The best I can do is about 8' off (so I use PEMPro). Do you think it could be because of Cone Error?

 

Greg

 

From: main@ap-gto.groups.io [mailto:main@ap-gto.groups.io] On Behalf Of uncarollo2 <chris1011@...> via Groups.Io
Sent: Friday, November 1, 2019 12:29 PM
To: main@ap-gto.groups.io
Subject: Re: [ap-gto] Orthogonality question

 

Cone error correction. There is an easy way to detect it. In this new keypad routine, you simply go to a star on one side of the meridian, center it and press Recal. Then send the mount to a star the other side of the meridian with the same or similar Dec, center it and press Recal. The cone error is extracted and set in the servo. From then on any time you flip sides the cone error will be compensated. The only place where this cannot work is around the poles because it is a physical impossibility.

 

Roland

 

 

 

-----Original Message-----
From: Greg Salyer <astronutcase@...>
To: main <main@ap-gto.groups.io>
Sent: Fri, Nov 1, 2019 11:15 am
Subject: Re: [ap-gto] Orthogonality question

Cone error correction? or detection?

 

Greg

 

From: main@ap-gto.groups.io [mailto:main@ap-gto.groups.io] On Behalf Of uncarollo2 <chris1011@...> via Groups.Io
Sent: Friday, November 1, 2019 12:02 PM
To: main@ap-gto.groups.io
Subject: Re: [ap-gto] Orthogonality question

 

We will have a cone error correction in our upcoming keypad software.

 

Roland

 

 

 

-----Original Message-----
From: Greg Salyer <astronutcase@...>
To: main <main@ap-gto.groups.io>
Sent: Fri, Nov 1, 2019 10:14 am
Subject: Re: [ap-gto] Orthogonality question

Another name for orthogonality error is cone error. Site https://www.sharpcap.co.uk/conesharp has a good description of the problem and software to measure it. Apparently some mounts do allow an adjustment to correct for it. If you search for cone error I'm sure you will find more.

 

Greg

 

From: main@ap-gto.groups.io [mailto:main@ap-gto.groups.io] On Behalf Of Andrew Jones
Sent: Friday, November 1, 2019 10:16 AM
To: main@ap-gto.groups.io
Subject: Re: [ap-gto] Orthogonality question

 

Suresh, I also have a couple of questions about Orthogonality error (OE). I hope you don’t mind me jumping in on this thread.

Can OE lead to issues with Guiding? I have continued to struggle to dial in my guiding and keep the total RMS error below 1.00. It is usually closer to 1.20 arc minutes. I have tried using the PHD2 settings recommended in a previous post by Rolando, and although they did help, I still struggle with guiding my Mach1 with a TEC140 attached (with or without an APPM pointing model). According my PemPro my polar alignment is +/- 2 arc mins. So, I suspect the issue is caused by OE. I am not that familiar with OE or how to correct for it.

 

Is OE something that can be detected by PemPro? It seems like that would be the right tool for the job. My rig is used solely for imaging, so I am looking for an imaging solution to help identify and recommend the OE adjustments that need to be made to correct for it.  I have seen instructions where it ask to point the OTA towards zenith on one side of the pier, then set a 1-hour meridian delay and slew to the same spot on the other side of the pier. The problem I have is that with the TEC140 and my imaging gear, I am almost hitting the pier when the scope is pointed at Zenith. So, setting a 1-hour meridian delay (which I assume means a weights up position) is not really a good option. Finally, is the best option to adjust for OE to put strips of cut up soda cans in the saddle to push the back end of the scope one way or the other? I am surprised someone has not produced a saddle that has OE adjustments built in. The Soda can method does not seem like an easily repeatable process.

 

Anyway, as I have never had to adjust for OE, I am looking for advice on the best way to go about detecting it and then fixing it on the Mach1. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.


Andrew J


Re: Orthogonality question

Roland Christen
 

Cone error correction. There is an easy way to detect it. In this new keypad routine, you simply go to a star on one side of the meridian, center it and press Recal. Then send the mount to a star the other side of the meridian with the same or similar Dec, center it and press Recal. The cone error is extracted and set in the servo. From then on any time you flip sides the cone error will be compensated. The only place where this cannot work is around the poles because it is a physical impossibility.

Roland



-----Original Message-----
From: Greg Salyer <astronutcase@...>
To: main <main@ap-gto.groups.io>
Sent: Fri, Nov 1, 2019 11:15 am
Subject: Re: [ap-gto] Orthogonality question

Cone error correction? or detection?
 
Greg
 
From: main@ap-gto.groups.io [mailto:main@ap-gto.groups.io] On Behalf Of uncarollo2 <chris1011@...> via Groups.Io
Sent: Friday, November 1, 2019 12:02 PM
To: main@ap-gto.groups.io
Subject: Re: [ap-gto] Orthogonality question
 
We will have a cone error correction in our upcoming keypad software.
 
Roland
 
 
 
-----Original Message-----
From: Greg Salyer <astronutcase@...>
To: main <main@ap-gto.groups.io>
Sent: Fri, Nov 1, 2019 10:14 am
Subject: Re: [ap-gto] Orthogonality question
Another name for orthogonality error is cone error. Site https://www.sharpcap.co.uk/conesharp has a good description of the problem and software to measure it. Apparently some mounts do allow an adjustment to correct for it. If you search for cone error I'm sure you will find more.
 
Greg
 
From: main@ap-gto.groups.io [mailto:main@ap-gto.groups.io] On Behalf Of Andrew Jones
Sent: Friday, November 1, 2019 10:16 AM
To: main@ap-gto.groups.io
Subject: Re: [ap-gto] Orthogonality question
 
Suresh, I also have a couple of questions about Orthogonality error (OE). I hope you don’t mind me jumping in on this thread.

Can OE lead to issues with Guiding? I have continued to struggle to dial in my guiding and keep the total RMS error below 1.00. It is usually closer to 1.20 arc minutes. I have tried using the PHD2 settings recommended in a previous post by Rolando, and although they did help, I still struggle with guiding my Mach1 with a TEC140 attached (with or without an APPM pointing model). According my PemPro my polar alignment is +/- 2 arc mins. So, I suspect the issue is caused by OE. I am not that familiar with OE or how to correct for it.
 
Is OE something that can be detected by PemPro? It seems like that would be the right tool for the job. My rig is used solely for imaging, so I am looking for an imaging solution to help identify and recommend the OE adjustments that need to be made to correct for it.  I have seen instructions where it ask to point the OTA towards zenith on one side of the pier, then set a 1-hour meridian delay and slew to the same spot on the other side of the pier. The problem I have is that with the TEC140 and my imaging gear, I am almost hitting the pier when the scope is pointed at Zenith. So, setting a 1-hour meridian delay (which I assume means a weights up position) is not really a good option. Finally, is the best option to adjust for OE to put strips of cut up soda cans in the saddle to push the back end of the scope one way or the other? I am surprised someone has not produced a saddle that has OE adjustments built in. The Soda can method does not seem like an easily repeatable process.
 
Anyway, as I have never had to adjust for OE, I am looking for advice on the best way to go about detecting it and then fixing it on the Mach1. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Andrew J


Re: Orthogonality question

Greg Salyer
 

Cone error correction? or detection?

 

Greg

 

From: main@ap-gto.groups.io [mailto:main@ap-gto.groups.io] On Behalf Of uncarollo2 <chris1011@...> via Groups.Io
Sent: Friday, November 1, 2019 12:02 PM
To: main@ap-gto.groups.io
Subject: Re: [ap-gto] Orthogonality question

 

We will have a cone error correction in our upcoming keypad software.

 

Roland

 

 

 

-----Original Message-----
From: Greg Salyer <astronutcase@...>
To: main <main@ap-gto.groups.io>
Sent: Fri, Nov 1, 2019 10:14 am
Subject: Re: [ap-gto] Orthogonality question

Another name for orthogonality error is cone error. Site https://www.sharpcap.co.uk/conesharp has a good description of the problem and software to measure it. Apparently some mounts do allow an adjustment to correct for it. If you search for cone error I'm sure you will find more.

 

Greg

 

From: main@ap-gto.groups.io [mailto:main@ap-gto.groups.io] On Behalf Of Andrew Jones
Sent: Friday, November 1, 2019 10:16 AM
To: main@ap-gto.groups.io
Subject: Re: [ap-gto] Orthogonality question

 

Suresh, I also have a couple of questions about Orthogonality error (OE). I hope you don’t mind me jumping in on this thread.

Can OE lead to issues with Guiding? I have continued to struggle to dial in my guiding and keep the total RMS error below 1.00. It is usually closer to 1.20 arc minutes. I have tried using the PHD2 settings recommended in a previous post by Rolando, and although they did help, I still struggle with guiding my Mach1 with a TEC140 attached (with or without an APPM pointing model). According my PemPro my polar alignment is +/- 2 arc mins. So, I suspect the issue is caused by OE. I am not that familiar with OE or how to correct for it.

 

Is OE something that can be detected by PemPro? It seems like that would be the right tool for the job. My rig is used solely for imaging, so I am looking for an imaging solution to help identify and recommend the OE adjustments that need to be made to correct for it.  I have seen instructions where it ask to point the OTA towards zenith on one side of the pier, then set a 1-hour meridian delay and slew to the same spot on the other side of the pier. The problem I have is that with the TEC140 and my imaging gear, I am almost hitting the pier when the scope is pointed at Zenith. So, setting a 1-hour meridian delay (which I assume means a weights up position) is not really a good option. Finally, is the best option to adjust for OE to put strips of cut up soda cans in the saddle to push the back end of the scope one way or the other? I am surprised someone has not produced a saddle that has OE adjustments built in. The Soda can method does not seem like an easily repeatable process.

 

Anyway, as I have never had to adjust for OE, I am looking for advice on the best way to go about detecting it and then fixing it on the Mach1. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.


Andrew J


Re: Orthogonality question

Roland Christen
 

We will have a cone error correction in our upcoming keypad software.

Roland



-----Original Message-----
From: Greg Salyer <astronutcase@...>
To: main <main@ap-gto.groups.io>
Sent: Fri, Nov 1, 2019 10:14 am
Subject: Re: [ap-gto] Orthogonality question

Another name for orthogonality error is cone error. Site https://www.sharpcap.co.uk/conesharp has a good description of the problem and software to measure it. Apparently some mounts do allow an adjustment to correct for it. If you search for cone error I'm sure you will find more.
 
Greg
 
From: main@ap-gto.groups.io [mailto:main@ap-gto.groups.io] On Behalf Of Andrew Jones
Sent: Friday, November 1, 2019 10:16 AM
To: main@ap-gto.groups.io
Subject: Re: [ap-gto] Orthogonality question
 
Suresh, I also have a couple of questions about Orthogonality error (OE). I hope you don’t mind me jumping in on this thread.

Can OE lead to issues with Guiding? I have continued to struggle to dial in my guiding and keep the total RMS error below 1.00. It is usually closer to 1.20 arc minutes. I have tried using the PHD2 settings recommended in a previous post by Rolando, and although they did help, I still struggle with guiding my Mach1 with a TEC140 attached (with or without an APPM pointing model). According my PemPro my polar alignment is +/- 2 arc mins. So, I suspect the issue is caused by OE. I am not that familiar with OE or how to correct for it.
 
Is OE something that can be detected by PemPro? It seems like that would be the right tool for the job. My rig is used solely for imaging, so I am looking for an imaging solution to help identify and recommend the OE adjustments that need to be made to correct for it.  I have seen instructions where it ask to point the OTA towards zenith on one side of the pier, then set a 1-hour meridian delay and slew to the same spot on the other side of the pier. The problem I have is that with the TEC140 and my imaging gear, I am almost hitting the pier when the scope is pointed at Zenith. So, setting a 1-hour meridian delay (which I assume means a weights up position) is not really a good option. Finally, is the best option to adjust for OE to put strips of cut up soda cans in the saddle to push the back end of the scope one way or the other? I am surprised someone has not produced a saddle that has OE adjustments built in. The Soda can method does not seem like an easily repeatable process.
 
Anyway, as I have never had to adjust for OE, I am looking for advice on the best way to go about detecting it and then fixing it on the Mach1. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Andrew J


Re: Orthogonality question

Roland Christen
 


Can OE lead to issues with Guiding?
NO! Orthogonality has nothing to do with guiding.

Roland


-----Original Message-----
From: Andrew Jones <andjones132@...>
To: main <main@ap-gto.groups.io>
Sent: Fri, Nov 1, 2019 10:01 am
Subject: Re: [ap-gto] Orthogonality question

Suresh, I also have a couple of questions about Orthogonality error (OE). I hope you don’t mind me jumping in on this thread.

Can OE lead to issues with Guiding? I have continued to struggle to dial in my guiding and keep the total RMS error below 1.00. It is usually closer to 1.20 arc minutes. I have tried using the PHD2 settings recommended in a previous post by Rolando, and although they did help, I still struggle with guiding my Mach1 with a TEC140 attached (with or without an APPM pointing model). According my PemPro my polar alignment is +/- 2 arc mins. So, I suspect the issue is caused by OE. I am not that familiar with OE or how to correct for it.
 
Is OE something that can be detected by PemPro? It seems like that would be the right tool for the job. My rig is used solely for imaging, so I am looking for an imaging solution to help identify and recommend the OE adjustments that need to be made to correct for it.  I have seen instructions where it ask to point the OTA towards zenith on one side of the pier, then set a 1-hour meridian delay and slew to the same spot on the other side of the pier. The problem I have is that with the TEC140 and my imaging gear, I am almost hitting the pier when the scope is pointed at Zenith. So, setting a 1-hour meridian delay (which I assume means a weights up position) is not really a good option. Finally, is the best option to adjust for OE to put strips of cut up soda cans in the saddle to push the back end of the scope one way or the other? I am surprised someone has not produced a saddle that has OE adjustments built in. The Soda can method does not seem like an easily repeatable process.
 
Anyway, as I have never had to adjust for OE, I am looking for advice on the best way to go about detecting it and then fixing it on the Mach1. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Andrew J


Re: Orthogonality question

Greg Salyer
 

Another name for orthogonality error is cone error. Site https://www.sharpcap.co.uk/conesharp has another way of describing the problem and software for

 

From: main@ap-gto.groups.io [mailto:main@ap-gto.groups.io] On Behalf Of Andrew Jones
Sent: Friday, November 1, 2019 10:16 AM
To: main@ap-gto.groups.io
Subject: Re: [ap-gto] Orthogonality question

 

Suresh, I also have a couple of questions about Orthogonality error (OE). I hope you don’t mind me jumping in on this thread.

Can OE lead to issues with Guiding? I have continued to struggle to dial in my guiding and keep the total RMS error below 1.00. It is usually closer to 1.20 arc minutes. I have tried using the PHD2 settings recommended in a previous post by Rolando, and although they did help, I still struggle with guiding my Mach1 with a TEC140 attached (with or without an APPM pointing model). According my PemPro my polar alignment is +/- 2 arc mins. So, I suspect the issue is caused by OE. I am not that familiar with OE or how to correct for it.

 

Is OE something that can be detected by PemPro? It seems like that would be the right tool for the job. My rig is used solely for imaging, so I am looking for an imaging solution to help identify and recommend the OE adjustments that need to be made to correct for it.  I have seen instructions where it ask to point the OTA towards zenith on one side of the pier, then set a 1-hour meridian delay and slew to the same spot on the other side of the pier. The problem I have is that with the TEC140 and my imaging gear, I am almost hitting the pier when the scope is pointed at Zenith. So, setting a 1-hour meridian delay (which I assume means a weights up position) is not really a good option. Finally, is the best option to adjust for OE to put strips of cut up soda cans in the saddle to push the back end of the scope one way or the other? I am surprised someone has not produced a saddle that has OE adjustments built in. The Soda can method does not seem like an easily repeatable process.

 

Anyway, as I have never had to adjust for OE, I am looking for advice on the best way to go about detecting it and then fixing it on the Mach1. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.


Andrew J


Re: Orthogonality question

Greg Salyer
 

Another name for orthogonality error is cone error. Site https://www.sharpcap.co.uk/conesharp has a good description of the problem and software to measure it. Apparently some mounts do allow an adjustment to correct for it. If you search for cone error I'm sure you will find more.

 

Greg

 

From: main@ap-gto.groups.io [mailto:main@ap-gto.groups.io] On Behalf Of Andrew Jones
Sent: Friday, November 1, 2019 10:16 AM
To: main@ap-gto.groups.io
Subject: Re: [ap-gto] Orthogonality question

 

Suresh, I also have a couple of questions about Orthogonality error (OE). I hope you don’t mind me jumping in on this thread.

Can OE lead to issues with Guiding? I have continued to struggle to dial in my guiding and keep the total RMS error below 1.00. It is usually closer to 1.20 arc minutes. I have tried using the PHD2 settings recommended in a previous post by Rolando, and although they did help, I still struggle with guiding my Mach1 with a TEC140 attached (with or without an APPM pointing model). According my PemPro my polar alignment is +/- 2 arc mins. So, I suspect the issue is caused by OE. I am not that familiar with OE or how to correct for it.

 

Is OE something that can be detected by PemPro? It seems like that would be the right tool for the job. My rig is used solely for imaging, so I am looking for an imaging solution to help identify and recommend the OE adjustments that need to be made to correct for it.  I have seen instructions where it ask to point the OTA towards zenith on one side of the pier, then set a 1-hour meridian delay and slew to the same spot on the other side of the pier. The problem I have is that with the TEC140 and my imaging gear, I am almost hitting the pier when the scope is pointed at Zenith. So, setting a 1-hour meridian delay (which I assume means a weights up position) is not really a good option. Finally, is the best option to adjust for OE to put strips of cut up soda cans in the saddle to push the back end of the scope one way or the other? I am surprised someone has not produced a saddle that has OE adjustments built in. The Soda can method does not seem like an easily repeatable process.

 

Anyway, as I have never had to adjust for OE, I am looking for advice on the best way to go about detecting it and then fixing it on the Mach1. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.


Andrew J


Re: Orthogonality question

Andrew J
 

Suresh, I also have a couple of questions about Orthogonality error (OE). I hope you don’t mind me jumping in on this thread.

Can OE lead to issues with Guiding? I have continued to struggle to dial in my guiding and keep the total RMS error below 1.00. It is usually closer to 1.20 arc minutes. I have tried using the PHD2 settings recommended in a previous post by Rolando, and although they did help, I still struggle with guiding my Mach1 with a TEC140 attached (with or without an APPM pointing model). According my PemPro my polar alignment is +/- 2 arc mins. So, I suspect the issue is caused by OE. I am not that familiar with OE or how to correct for it.

 

Is OE something that can be detected by PemPro? It seems like that would be the right tool for the job. My rig is used solely for imaging, so I am looking for an imaging solution to help identify and recommend the OE adjustments that need to be made to correct for it.  I have seen instructions where it ask to point the OTA towards zenith on one side of the pier, then set a 1-hour meridian delay and slew to the same spot on the other side of the pier. The problem I have is that with the TEC140 and my imaging gear, I am almost hitting the pier when the scope is pointed at Zenith. So, setting a 1-hour meridian delay (which I assume means a weights up position) is not really a good option. Finally, is the best option to adjust for OE to put strips of cut up soda cans in the saddle to push the back end of the scope one way or the other? I am surprised someone has not produced a saddle that has OE adjustments built in. The Soda can method does not seem like an easily repeatable process.

 

Anyway, as I have never had to adjust for OE, I am looking for advice on the best way to go about detecting it and then fixing it on the Mach1. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.


Andrew J


Re: Help with getting mount (AP 1100GTO) to flip in Voyager

Ray Gralak
 

Hi Tony,

By default the mount will flip if issued a goto command after it passes the meridian + meridian delay. However, you can force the flip by setting the Action to take on APCC's Meridian delay tab.

That said, you may not want to force a meridian flip because if you are imaging the camera may be taking a picture at that time. Usually the application software will issue a GOTO before the start of the next image when it detects the scope has passed the meridian.

-Ray Gralak
Author of APCC (Astro-Physics Command Center): http://www.astro-physics.com/index.htm?products/accessories/software/apcc/apcc
Author of PEMPro V3: https://www.ccdware.com
Author of Astro-Physics V2 ASCOM Driver: https://www.siriusimaging.com/apdriver

-----Original Message-----
From: main@ap-gto.groups.io [mailto:main@ap-gto.groups.io] On Behalf Of Tony Benjamin
Sent: Thursday, October 31, 2019 8:18 PM
To: main@ap-gto.groups.io
Subject: [ap-gto] Help with getting mount (AP 1100GTO) to flip in Voyager

Hi,

While I have been using Voyager successfully for a bit now (thanks Bill :)) I still have not been successful in getting
the mount to flip automatically when reaching the meridian. Can anyone see what may need changing in the
settings I have to get the mount to flip successfully at the meridian?


Thanks

Tony


Re: Orthogonality question

DFisch
 

Jimmy, best explanation of OE I have ever seen or heard, great post!

On Fri, Nov 1, 2019 at 00:26 jimmyjujames <jimmy_an@...> wrote:
If OE is short for orthogonality error.
 
An Orthogonality error (OE) is only east-west when pointing at zenith.
OE is always in line with the counter-weight shaft.
When pointing at NCP with counter-weight shaft pointing down, OE is north-south.
 
 What is an orthogonality error (OE)?
 
 With the counter-weights down and scope pointing at NCP.
 An orthogonality error will cause the viewing point to be above or below NCP.
 
 To the left or right of NCP is not an error.
 You can move Dec to remove any left or right offset.
 
 Rotating RA will move the viewing point around NCP forming a circle around NCP.
 Radius of this circle is your (1x) orthogonality error.
 Diameter of the circle is 2 times (2x) your orthogonality error.
 
 If you move the counter-weight shaft to west side and horizontal/level with ground, the scope's 
 viewing point will be either east or west of NCP by (1x) your orthogonality error.
 If you move scope from NCP to zenith to Dec=0 to SCP, your scope's viewing point will be east or
 west of meridian by your 1x orthogonality error everywhere along that path.
 
 If you do a meridian flip at NCP, you will miss NCP by 1x on the other side of NCP.
 1x on one side of NCP, meridian flip and 1x off on other side = 2x orthogonality error when
 flipping from east to west side.
 
 You will have to shim the front or rear ring to bring your viewing point back to NCP.
 
 After minimizing your orthogonality error,
 future meridian flips should result in star in FOV on both sides.
 
 If not then you may have flexure and/or worm needs re-meshing and/or
 something is loose and needs tightening.
 
As always, I may be wrong again.
Jimmy


Re: Orthogonality question

jimmyjujames
 
Edited

If OE is short for orthogonality error.
 
An Orthogonality error (OE) is only east-west when pointing at zenith or along meridian.
OE is always in line with the counter-weight shaft.
When pointing at NCP with counter-weight shaft pointing down, OE is north-south.
 
 What is an orthogonality error (OE)?
 
 With the counter-weights down and scope pointing at NCP.
 An orthogonality error will cause the scope's viewing point to be above or below NCP.
 
 To the left or right of NCP is not an error.
 You can move Dec to remove any left or right offset.
 
 Rotating RA from east side to west side will move the scope's
 viewing point around NCP tracing out half of a circle around NCP.
 Scope will hit the pier before the other half of circle completes.
 
 Radius of this circle is your (1x) orthogonality error.
 Diameter of the circle is 2 times (2x) your orthogonality error.
 
 If you move the counter-weight shaft to west side and horizontal/level with ground, the scope's 
 viewing point will be either east or west of NCP by (1x) your orthogonality error.
 
 If you move the counter-weight shaft to east side and horizontal/level with ground,
 you will miss NCP by 1x on the other side of NCP.
 
 1x on one side of NCP, meridian flip and 1x off on other side = 2x orthogonality error when
 flipping from east to west side.
 
 If you move scope from NCP to zenith to Dec=0 to SCP, your scope's viewing point will be east or
 west of meridian by your 1x orthogonality error everywhere along that path.
 
 You will have to shim the front or rear ring to bring your viewing point back to NCP.
 
 After minimizing your orthogonality error,
 future meridian flips should result in star in FOV on both sides.
 
 If not then you may have flexure and/or worm needs re-meshing and/or
 something is loose and needs tightening.
 
As always, I may be wrong again.
Jimmy


Help with getting mount (AP 1100GTO) to flip in Voyager

Tony Benjamin <tonybenjamin@...>
 

Hi,

While I have been using Voyager successfully for a bit now (thanks Bill :)) I still have not been successful in getting the mount to flip automatically when reaching the meridian. Can anyone see what may need changing in the settings I have to get the mount to flip successfully at the meridian?


Thanks

Tony


Orthogonality question

Suresh Mohan
 

I know this question was discussed by Roland several years back but I seek the answer . Why does OE always show up on the east west axis
Thanks
Dr Suresh


Re: Polemaster adapter for AP-1600 w/o absolute encoders

Dale Hooper
 

Paige from Astro-Physics gave me the part number for the AP-1600 dec sight hole cover, in case anyone else is interested in trying Tony's idea of drilling and tapping a spare.  The part number is:  M16148. The charge is $24, and shipping is $7.50.

Clear skies,
Dale.


Re: What good are the encoders on the Mach2? #Mach2GTO #Absolute_Encoders

Roland Christen
 

The encoders cannot anticipate wind but can react to it after the fact. So you will have excursions but the axis being affected will recover much faster when the encoders are on. The best strategy is to set your mount low to the ground without extending the tripod legs. Large telescope tubes catch more wind then skinny ones. Same with short scopes versus long ones.

Rolando



-----Original Message-----
From: Rich Sornborger via Groups.Io <sornborger@...>
To: main <main@ap-gto.groups.io>
Sent: Thu, Oct 31, 2019 7:47 am
Subject: Re: [ap-gto] What good are the encoders on the Mach2?

I have a question regarding encoders and wind.  Do encoders make a vast improvement in gusty wind conditions?


Re: What good are the encoders on the Mach2? #Mach2GTO #Absolute_Encoders

Rich Sornborger
 

I have a question regarding encoders and wind.  Do encoders make a vast improvement in gusty wind conditions?


Re: Pointing for all night tracking

Michael Hambrick <mike.hambrick@...>
 

Hi Claude

Do you have a Keypad controller ? If so you might be able to use the directional buttons to manually slew to the RA and Dec coordinates of the object keeping the weights pointed up. Then once you find it you could start guiding. I am sure that Roland or Ray can offer some better suggestions.


Best Regards

Michael Hambrick
ARLANXEO
TSR Global Manufacturing Support
PO Box 2000
Orange, TX 77631-2000
Phone: +1 (409) 882-2799
email: mike.hambrick@...


Re: Pointing for all night tracking

Geof Lewis
 

Hi Claude,
I achieve this by setting a meridian delay in the APV2 driver, usually no more than 2 hours, but the other night I set a +3 hour delay, which actually advances the meridian flip point east of the true meridian, so that continuous tracking through the meridian is achieved, starting with CWs up.
Good luck,

Geof


On 31 Oct 2019, at 04:34, Isphotoman via Groups.Io <Isphotoman@...> wrote:

Hello, I have the AE1100 and am just learning how to use it. I would like to know what I need to do to slew the mount my scope is pointing to the east on an object and with the weights up? Not sure how to ask this question clearly. The problem is if I use my planetarium software to slew to an object that is rising in the east the mount slews so the weights are down, that means when the object crosses the meridian I would have to do pier flip. What I think I can do with this mount is slew to the object but have the weights pointing up, then image all night long without having to do a pier flip, The problem I have is I don't know how to point to the object so the weights would be up, if I slew to the object with the planetarium program it wants to keep the weights down. Am I off the mark trying to do this and should I just settle for a meridian flip?

Thanks
Claude