[APML]: More ST-4 Questions

[charles@jon.cjfny.org]

The Astro-Photography Mailing List
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I also used the ST-4 successfully for the first time Saturday.

Just wondering why the unit stopped tracking successfully after 15-20
minutes? This happened at about the time I reached the zenith (Cygnus
was passing overhead).

Is the tracking influenced by shifts in the weight of the
camera/guidescope asembly as the mount changes orientation?

I would like to know what the general reasons are for tracking failure
(aside from cloud cover). How important is extra accurate polar
alignment? I don't plan to use the drift method with my GM8. I suppose
flexure is a major reason, as is a sinking tripod.

Because I was doing piggyback, I did not need excessively accurate
tracking. Is there any way of easing the tracking parameters?

Can I leave the drive on any speed while the calibration and tracking is
going on?

Do people use their hand paddle or the buttons on the ST4 control panel
to slew?

Can I use a star for tracking when its location is far from 50/50 (ie.
25/75)? Or will the tracking fail?


Any info would be really appreciated.

Charles