[Laser] Aiming methods using "goto" telescopes

[ERIC GUINN]

Bob,  (et al)

I've been trying to use stepper motors and hinged boards and threaded rod
and so forth for ages, until I came up with this idea:

I purchased a little used Meade ETX-60AT computerized telescope with
"Autostar" hand controller just for the purpose of pointing my laser
station.  I hoped to find a broken scope for nothing, but I think these go
for $60-$100 or so used, and you can buy them new at Wal-Mart for what is it
now, $179?  Anyway, these have repeatable non-backlash pointing accuracy of
arcseconds and such slow slew rates that you can't even see the tube move.
PERFECT for laser comm!  You can use the scope as the receiver and place
your detector in the eyepiece mount, or you could piggyback the receiver
(after careful alignment) and use the scope optics as-is to look visually
for the other station's beam. (AS LONG AS THEY AREN'T CLOSE ENOUGH TO BLIND
YOU!)

Now if I can just find someone around here to TRY it with, and I'll be set.

Besides, I now have a cute little telescope to use with the family on summer
nights.


73,

Eric Guinn, AC4LS
Sevierville, TN