| DIY Guide-Scope Mount |
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Introduction
One of the problems inherent with deep-sky astrophotography, is that the targets are so magnified and dim, that often a decent guide-star cannot be found within the field of view of the guide-scope. To adjust many oversize-ring-type mounts, the movements can be cumbersome, rough and knock your other equipment about.
I decided to design and build a rigid mount that would have a wide range of movement while still able to perform fine adjustment to precicely aquire and lock on to a guide star. With a very good friend who is also an excellent machinist, we set to the task of conceptualising and building the mount.
The mount is built in two main pieces. The bottom half, to bolt to any available surface,
and a top half that fits snugly over the other, to provide windage and elevation adjustments.
The mount is adjusted by means of slotted holes under spring-washer tension, and winding knobs for the fine adjustments. To provide a smooth action, four delrin buffers were installed between the top and bottom assemblies.
To give clearance under the telescope, two 10mm thick, delrin blocks are used to raise the scope rings.(Not shown in photo's, see drawing below.) This design can be given any dimensions to fit the needs of the required telescope.
In the spirit of helping other amateur astrophotographers, (As always) I am happy for others to recreate this mount for personal use only. This design remains the intellectual property of Barry Armstead of A.S.I.G.N. Observatory. Please do not use this design for commercial use.
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