Two words describe this: Astrophotography Porn :-)
DSNM has a pretty extensive shop with tools, cables, machinery... that we could use:
This made everything MUCH easier!!!
We started with an empty pier
First, we mounted the adapter plate on top of the pier.
Then we hoisted the GM3000 up the scaffolding next to our pier - that thing is HEAVY (140+ lbs!!!).
We thought a lot how to get it now safely on top of the pier. It was crazy heavy and there aren't many points where you can safely grab it. Rich had the saving idea to put a long metal rod through the two transport holes and lift it like that. With that we could lift it (still heavy, but much more controlled).
Yei!!!
Next, we routed the USB and power cable through the mount, attached the (HEAVY) counterweights. And finally put the scope on top.
That was pretty much it for the first day... But the heavy lifting (literally) is done!
The bad news is that at full extension the scope is VERY close to the ceiling that will roll off.
We decided to continue the setup. Balancing and polar alignment would still change this (in either direction!) and once we know it, we'd decide what to do.
Next: Day 2
No comments:
Post a Comment