Re: [APML] Guidescope thoughts...

[Matt BenDaniel <matt@starmatt.com>]

Alan Voetsch wrote:
> I don't recall seeing this particular thread of
> conversation before. Is side-by-side preferable to one
> on top of the other? Any thoughts on this?

Alan,

I've used both.  I prefer the guide scope on top of the imaging scope
because:
* Has faster setup, fewer parts to transport.
* Requires balancing only forward/backward in DEC (not left/right as
well).
* Provides more clearance to the tripod/pier, increasing the number of
useable RA/DEC positions.
* Reduces the DEC rotational moment and requires less work by the DEC
drive.

One downside of the top arrangement:
* With my long guide scope, the ST-4 head sometimes gets in the way of
my head when I'm composing the shot.

BTW the Losmandy DSBS plate has no flex AFAIK.
-- 
Matt BenDaniel
http://starmatt.com

--  APML Archives at <http://astro.umsystem.edu/apml/>  ---
             Unsubscribe at <majordomo@seds.org>