exposures and remote observing sessions.
5.
M-uno mount stationing
Before using the M-uno mount it is necessary to position its polar axis parallel to the earth’s axis
of rotation.
In this chapter the operations to trim the latitude and the azimuth and to perform the mount
alignment to the celestial pole using the standard polar scope (or the optional alternative) will be
described.
5.1 Latitude Fine Adjustment
During this operation the mount arm
must be kept in its equilibrium
position with the counterweight
down as shown on the right.
After
leveling the mount base using built-
in the bubble level, the next step in
this process consists of
approximately setting the polar axis
at an angle equivalent to the
latitude of the observation site. For
example Rome is about 42° North,
Milan and Venice 45° North and
Palermo 38° North. Refer to the
latitude scale on the side of the
mount.
The latitude adjustment must be performed
using both hands to turn the two latitude
adjustment knobs in conjunction with each
other. While one hand is tightening the front
knob, the other hand should be loosening
the rear knob and vice-versa. To increase
the latitude (i.e. raise the polar axis), the
rear knob must be turned in the clockwise
direction while the front one is turned in the
counterclockwise Direction. To lower the
axis, the opposite actions are performed.
NOTE:
It is generally better to perform the
fine latitude operations against the force of
©
All Rights reserved
-
19
