7 replies to this topic

[Tom_Rent_MN]

I have a Skyview Pro 8 coming (8"/F4.9 with EQ5 mount) and I ordered the Orion Dual Axis Drive add-on kit for it as well (not a GoTo). 

 

I'm slowly learning what is needed for EAA and it seems, at a minimum, I can use the drive motor controller to locate a target, then use a "ZWO" camera and Sharpcap to view the images as the RA drive provides tracking.

 

As a next step after that, what is available to allow me to drive the motors from a planetarium program like Cartes du Ciel, and operate and view the scope-feed from the comfort of my basement 30 feet away?

 

Is there a video where someone has done what I'm describing?

Edited by Tom_Rent_MN, 23 February 2021 - 10:24 AM.

[GaryShaw]

Search out the forum ‘EAA for dummies’ in CN and you’ll find good material to get you started. You’ll need ASCOM control of your mount to use planetarium programs to drive your mount. A Finder might work if your target is readily visible. You really need a goto mount for EAA though. 
good luck. 
Gary

Edited by GaryShaw, 23 February 2021 - 10:34 AM.

[Tom_Rent_MN]

Here is the link to that "dummies" thread.  

https://www.cloudyni...rs-guide-to-eaa

 

Does the Skyview Pro Goto SynScan support remote PC control?  https://optcorp.com/...ope-mounts-7817

Edited by Tom_Rent_MN, 23 February 2021 - 02:20 PM.

[alphatripleplus]

You might want to ask Orion direclty if their Skyview mounts have an ASCOM driver. I did not see a driver for Skyview mounts on the ASCOM Mounts driver webpage, but maybe I am missing it.

[Rickster]

Looks like it can be done.  http://forum.shoestr...topic.php?t=176

[Tom_Rent_MN]

I did more digging.  The SVP GoTo Add-on kit does indeed support PC control.  See page 12.

https://www.telescop...29296_02-09.pdf

[bdoyle]

I have my Sky View Pro working with ASCOM. Pretty sure I used "synscan_mount_ascom_driver606262" but I did need to change the stepper counts. Need to start up laptop to verify. I have SharpCap, Stellarium and AllSkyPlatesolver all working together. Watch your backlash and setscrew tightness when installing the drives. I bought this mount from a guy who was not very mechanical who ordered the exact same combo. 

[bdoyle]

I found the stepper counts at:

http://eq-mod.source...t/tutindex.html

under the Pre-Requisites menu. This page was very helpful in get my mount working. I also have the rs-232 hand controller bypass working but I can't really decide which setup is better because having the jog buttons is really handy.