PoleMaster

The PoleMaster is an ingenious device designed to simplify polar alignment for astronomers using equatorial mounts. Here are the key features:

1. Purpose: Achieving precise polar alignment is crucial for astrophotography and visual observations. The PoleMaster streamlines this process.

2. Functionality:

   • The PoleMaster consists of a highly sensitive wide-field imaging camera.
   • It attaches in front of the equatorial mount’s RA (Right Ascension) axis.
   • In real time, it captures star images near the North celestial pole.
   • The camera’s sensitivity surpasses that of the naked eye, allowing it to detect not only Polaris (the North Star) but also dimmer stars surrounding Polaris.
   • By analyzing the positions of these stars, the PoleMaster determines the true pole’s location and compares it to the mechanical axis of RA rotation¹².

3. Advantages:

   • Speed: Achieve excellent polar alignment in just 2-3 minutes.
   • Accuracy: Achieve alignment with an accuracy of up to 30 arc seconds.
   • Ease of Use:
     • No need to rotate the telescope to uncomfortable positions.
     • No squatting down to look through a polar axis scope.
     • No darkness adaptation to find Polaris.
     • No manual date and time entry or strange mount angles.
     • No need to adjust the equatorial level.
   • Continuous Monitoring: Observe the polar axis alignment at any time and correct inadvertent mount movements without redoing the alignment.
   • Pixel Resolution: The PoleMaster’s pixel resolution is approximately 30 arc seconds, providing high accuracy.
   • Wide Field of View: The electronic polar mirror covers an 11-degree by 8-degree field of view, making it easy to locate Polaris.
   • Compatibility: Mount it on any equatorial mount, including single-axis mounts¹.

In summary, the PoleMaster is an essential tool for achieving precise polar alignment, ensuring better tracking and imaging performance during your stargazing adventures!