The first time I tried focussing my 416XT it took me ages too - but
there are easy methods you can use. The motor focus is definitely
worthwhile for this job as you can sit in front of the computer monitor
and tweak focus from there - without the image wobbling too. Just make
yourself a simple 2-hole mask from cardboard to place in front of the
corrector (2 holes at the extreme edge of the full aperture, about 3/4"
diameter). Use a medium-bright star and an exposure time of about 100
ms. You'll find it a snap to get focus within a minute or two at most.
The auto-focus routine would take longer and would not be as accurate
(particularly if the seeing is less than perfect). If you are going for
planetary images focus on a nearby star (same DEC preferably) rather
than the planet itself.

Chris Heapy


Jay Reynolds wrote:
>
> As I have been initiated to the "imaging club", I find the greatest time,
> for me anyways, is FOCUS! I can get the coarse focus just fine, but that
> final critical adjustment eludes me.
>
> Does the Meade focus motor (LX200 10" f/10) do the "auto focus" well? At
> all?
>
> While a focus motor is appealing for just the enjoyment for visual
> observing, I can see loads of time saved if this device can perform the
> final step.
>
> Any input welcome, as always, thanks in advance for your help!
>
> Jay

--
*Model Engineer Support Page*
Engineering: http://easyweb.easynet.co.uk/~chrish/homepage.htm
Astro Stuff: http://easyweb.easynet.co.uk/~chrish/lx200.htm

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