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Centering of azimuth pivot

Started by Moose408, 05/06/2003 04:46PM
Posted 05/06/2003 04:46PM Opening Post
I am constructing a dob base and the current design has the altitude bearings towards the rear of the base. Not centered on the side supports.

My question is where should I put the azimuth rotation point. Should it be directly below the center of altitude bearings or should it be centered on the base board (which would place it ahead of the altitude bearing centers)?

If the azimuth is centered below altitude bearings then it would imply a smaller ground board which might make it too unstable. But centering it on the base board might make it are to get enough leverage to rotate.

-- Craig
Posted 05/06/2003 04:49PM #1
I would think you want it centered on the alt pivots, because this is where the scope's center of mass will be. Otherwise slewing it in azimuth will feel kind of 'odd' and it will generally feel 'out of balance'.