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For a more foolproof way to adjust the altitude (step 2 of the process above), you can pick a constellation on the meridian
and slew back & forth using the Stars Tour mode. If conveniently placed, stars of the same constellation, e.g. alpha, beta
etc., can be on either side of the meridian. Slewing between them will cause the telescope to switch sides, and any Dec.
error corresponds to twice the altitude movement you must make on the mount. R.A. error will show you how far out your
orthogonality is. This only takes 1 or 2 iterations to get very close alignment of the optical axis. Roland personally uses a
variation of this method, using the same star (GTO Quick Star Drift Method). By advancing the clock by 1 hour or using the
meridian swap feature, the scope will slew to the west side of the mount, where a precise compensation can be made to
the altitude axis. This avoids any discrepancy in R.A. and Dec. co-ordinate data.
Using our Right-Angle Polar Alignment Scope (RAPAS) is another alternative. It is easier and quicker than either of the
above methods. However, keep in mind that the Polar Alignment Scope must also be aligned with the mount (it will be very
accurate out-of-the-box) so that it is orthogonal. Once this is done in the rst session, subsequent polar alignment will be
very quick.
Additional Tips for Non-Orthogonal Systems
Additional suggestions for improving pointing accuracy and living with non-orthogonal systems are provided in these prior
sections of the manual:
● Using Tour Mode to Compensate for Imperfect Polar Alignment or Non-Orthogonal Systems.
● Using Software, such as Astro-Physics Command Center (APCC), to Improve Pointing Accuracy.
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