Reaching for the Stars

[GWR 101]

Hi this is a bit off the usual subject but I am hoping that someone might help. I have recently acquired a basic telescope, and would like to modify the mount so that it has "go to" positioning and auto tracking. I understand that commercial equipment is available but the cost seems high compared to the value of the scope.

I was wondering if I could make a two axis rotating set up (360 deg. horizontal and 90 deg. vertical axis) possibly using stepper motors. These seem available with 1.8 deg. rotation increments which if geared down may be useable ?. I believe I have the necessary skill and equipment to make a reasonable piece of kit but am at a complete loss of how to make it operate. Any thoughts, please remember my electrical / electronic knowledge is limited to wiring a 3 pin plug.

Many thanks in advance, regards Paul

[denford]

Hi Paul the editor on the model engineers website does a lot astronomy and using powered scopes it might be worth looking in there forum.

[jasonb]

Bit about Neil's motorized scope in this thread

www.model-engineer.co.uk/forums/postings.asp?th=162957

[GWR 101]

Hi denford & jasonb, thanks for your replies. I have had a quick read through of the article and can understand the principles that are employed in making the mechanical side of the project. However an initial look at the electronic side has left me bewildered, I will read through it again to see if this old brain can make sense of it. Regards Paul