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Post by brian83 on Dec 10, 2017 8:17:44 GMT
I need help with my polar alignment so I can take long exposure pictures can anyone help?
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Post by kimg on Dec 10, 2017 9:19:35 GMT
Hi Brian, you should also post up what your equipment is as that will be a factor in whatever advice is given. Also, do a search on youtube, there are videos out there that can explain a whole lot better than text, how to achieve good alignment. Also the website Astronomy Shed Tutorials has some good videos too.
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Post by brian83 on Dec 10, 2017 10:29:53 GMT
Hi kim thanks for reply i have an EQ5 mount and a 200p skywatcher. I have tried youtube but with out much success
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Post by dale on Dec 12, 2017 12:48:26 GMT
Hi Brian, If your EQ5 is fitted with a polar alignment scope then that is probably the easiest way to polar align it. The versions of that mount that I can see on the internet all seem to have one but there maybe versions without.
Alternatively the star drift method is accurate but it is a bit time consuming. You'll also need an eyepiece with cross hairs, preferably illuminated. If you Google 'polar alignment star drift method' you'll find plenty of instructions but let me know if you have any questions as the instructions often assume a certain amount of prior knowledge which may or may already have.
For wide field imaging I find I can get away with using the latitude scale on the mount and a compass to point it to the north. This allows 1-2 minute exposures without visible trailing. However, with your larger telescope that probably won't be sufficient, but you could give it a try.
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Post by kimg on Dec 16, 2017 0:06:55 GMT
This is a link to a neat little program that displays the proper position of polaris in your polar finder, set it to this and you will not be far off. Link is to my dropbox so perfectly safe. Link here
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Post by richdavies on Dec 16, 2017 22:17:42 GMT
en_download_caty01461887945. Thats the download link to the EQ5/6 Instruction manual on the Skywatcher support website where there is a comprehensive guide to polar alignment
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Post by brian83 on Dec 17, 2017 16:26:30 GMT
Thanks for the tips i will give them ago if and when there are any clear nights
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