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"Mapleton Lateral Observatory:" Astro-Tech AT8IN & Orion ST80 mounted on CG-5, improved configuration, David Dearden

"Mapleton Lateral Observatory:" Astro-Tech AT8IN & Orion ST80 mounted on CG-5, improved configuration

"Mapleton Lateral Observatory:" Astro-Tech AT8IN & Orion ST80 mounted on CG-5, improved configuration, David Dearden

"Mapleton Lateral Observatory:" Astro-Tech AT8IN & Orion ST80 mounted on CG-5, improved configuration

Description

I changed the orientation of the AT8IN in the mounting rings at the suggestion of user mmcbee. This was an excellent piece of advice. Pointing the focuser down, parallel with the declination axis, allows it to offset the weight of the guide scope, minimizing the amount of counterweight that has to be added. It is a little awkward for visual use, but I usually try to find my targets with the cameras anyway.

I also got a real counterweight, and a 16" counterweight rod, allowing me to get decent balance. I made a few other changes, adding stiffer springs in the mirror cell of the AT8IN, and improving the contact between the heat sink / fan and the TEC chip in my modified DSI IIc camera, but you can't see those in this image.

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"Mapleton Lateral Observatory:" Astro-Tech AT8IN & Orion ST80 mounted on CG-5, improved configuration, David Dearden