I have had a Vixen SXP2 mount (with Starbook-10) for about 3 years. I've been using it mostly for Visual Observing
and enjoying it very much. I would like to start using it for long exposure imaging. I have searched online for details
on how others accomplish this on their SXP2, but Vixen is not a popular mount and have not had much luck finding info.
So, I would like to know from members on this site who have used SXP2 + SB-10 for deep-sky imaging, detail steps for doing autoguiding with software.
- What software works best with SXP2/SB-10 (e.g.
- What autoguiding scope you recommend ?
- I'll have to get a laptop. what drivers needed for SXP2 ?
- What are settings to use in SB-10 when autoguiding ?
- What cables needed to connect everything ?
- Details steps of workflow.
- Do you initially do 2-3 star alignment with SB-10 then handover to autoguiding s/w ?
- How would you do Polar Alignment with automated tool like QHY PoleMaster (drift alignment takes too long).
I have run into a SB-10 message/error "Crossing North Celestial Pole" How do I get around that.
Here is my Current Visual Observing workflow.
1. Setup and level tripod. Attach SXP2 mount, SB-10.
Some SB-10 settings:
- SB-10 version 5.10
- Set my observing location and time
- Mount setting: Equat mount without polar alignment
- Atmospheric Refraction ON
- I do not have
Cross-Over
warn for Telescope reverse: Over 15° Step 2°
Override Merid stop point: Over 20°
2. Do best effort polar align using included Polar Scope.
3. Attach Telescope and accessories, balance.
Loosen
4. Turn On Mount/SB-10
Advance SB-10 initial settings screen to "Home Position", OK
Do Alignment on 2-3 bright stars
5. Start using
- In SB-10 I cannot disable Crossover-
- SB-10 does not have an actual guiding rate to set (Lunar, Solar, Sideral)
I assume it sets it based on the object I
Your help will be appreciated. Thanks in advance.
K.Q. (Calgary, Canada)