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M1 / M 31-- micro-focuser test

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 11/24/2024 -- Testing out the new (to me) Meade Zero Image-Shift Microfocuser for the venerable Meade LX10 2000mm F10 SCT... connected to the shoestring astronomy controller on the Odroid XU4....and controlled with Indi/Ekos.  Initial focusing test showed promise using an initial starting movement of 1500ms... this collection against M1 will see how the microfocuser fares with an actual collection. Meade Zero Image-Shift Microfocuser... into which the Starizona Corrector III is inserted. Weather started good from 18:00 through mid-night, but clouds are expected and the moon rises (at 28% full) at 01:30... so no real expectations of greatness... but a good night to test equipment.  Using only a 1.25" UV/IR cut filter (broadband color imaging).  After collecting a test image, set exposure to 100s at gain 285 with offset 32 at 0 C.  Spent considerable time re-adjusting the polar alignment (swinging back and forth between -800 to +50". Finally gave up around -11" e...
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LX10 SCT Collimation Test

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 11/16/2024 -- Set up the venerable Meade LX10 SCT at prime focus with the Svbony 405cc with a 1.25" UV/IR cut filter. Centered on Hamal in Ares close to zenith and used AstroDMx-Capture directly connected to the camera to capture a range of defocused star frames to examine collimation.  Results suggested no adjustment is likely needed...despite the fact that the OTA has never been collimated since I've owned it! Examples:
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