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[APML] APML Portable Mount for AstroPhotography



 
Hi All
 
Joined this list a week ago. I like very much the willingness of people who seem to want to help us realtive newbies.
 
I've recently started getting some good (by my standards) results on film but only from my backyard (mag 4 (ish) skies that limit me to 12-15 minute exposures (on Kodak Elite Chrome 200 slide film - unhypered).
 
My scope setp (a 12 inch F4 reflector) is permanently setup and I am considering have a portable pier made to allow me to get to darker (for the U.K.) sites for photogrpahy.
 
My question: Should I have the mount made from steel (this would be heavy but just portable) or from aluminium (lightweight but strong).
 
Considering the U.K. weather (frequently windy) would an aluminium pier prove to lightweight.
 
I use an Aim Controls EQ2 mount (total weight of OTA, mount & counterweights about 100lbs.)
 
The pier would be about 20 - 24 inches in height.
 
Appreciate any advice.
 
Thanks
Eddie Guscott
Corringham, Essex, England