RE: [APML] Drift alignment problem - wedge mounted scope

["Gene Horr" <genehorr@houston.rr.com>]

> I doubt mirror flop would be an issue in this instance for two
> reasons. The
> mirror is locked, and the scope is only moving ~20 degrees, from ~+30
> degrees elevation to ~+50 degrees elevation above the Southern horizon.
> However, I won't rule out any possible cause at this point.

Strike one <g>.  The next idea would be the worm.  I don't remember whether
or not the DEC worm is spring loaded like the RA is.  I don't think this
is likely but it is possible that the worm spring is slightly moving the
OTA.  My test would be to leave it in the position for 30 minutes or so
and then test for drift.

There is a lot of flexure in the mount but I have trouble picturing anything
that would allow perfect tracking at +10 degrees DEC and drift at -10
degrees
DEC.

Gene Horr


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