How does an equatorial platform work?
An equatorial platform,or EQ platform for short, is a squat, flat, motor-driven table that sits underneath the Dob base and gradually pivots the scope at the exact rate needed to counteract the apparent motion of the stars.
How does a Dobsonian mount work?
Dobsonian telescopes are a type of reflecting telescope that is very popular in the visual astronomy community. They work by reflecting the light travelling inside their optical tube assembly (OTA) from a curved primary mirror to a flat secondary mirror which then directs the light to the focuser.
Can a Dobsonian be mounted on an equatorial platform?
This can get to be a hassle. Set a Dobsonian on an Equatorial Platform and experience instant motorized tracking! Wherever you point, you’re tracking – smoothly, precisely – without losing stability, ease of operation or portability. A Dobsonian mounted on an EQUATORIAL PLATFORM becomes the ultimate user-friendly telescope.
What makes a Dobsonian telescope a DOB?
When John Dobson invented the Dobsonian he wanted the general public to have access to an inexpensive, lightweight, and yet at the same time a large aperture scope. Dobs since then have morphed quite a bit; truss tubes, outstanding optics, GoTo and tracking capabilities, etc. So, what makes a Dob a Dob? Well, it’s the alt/az mount.
Which is the best equatorial platform for Dob tracking?
Equatorial Platforms for great Dob tracking. A well-made Dobsonian telescope is an excellent observing machine. It features unmatched stability and smoothness of motion. Plus, it is eminently compact and transportable. However, the Dobsonian has one major drawback – no motor drive.
What kind of galaxies can you see with a Dobsonian telescope?
Many faint galaxies can be viewed through my Dob whereas they remain invisible in his SCT. And, needless to say, M42 is jaw-dropping. It fills the entire field of view and many of its colors are easily seen. Jupiter’s red spot and Saturn’s Cassini gap are both easily discernable.