Equatorial mount declination and right ascencion ring problem?

Question

I know how to set the scope, but my declination and ra rings are loose on their stems. how should these be set?
Thanks

Answer 1

The answer to this depends on the specific equatorial mount you havve. Different manufacturers will have different ways to do this. The rings should be able to move on their stem, but not freely -- they should (if you don't touch them) follow the scope's motion.

In general, you want the RA and Decl rings to be adjustable so that you can calibrate then (or align, which might be a better word.).

After aligning your polar axis closely, select a recognized star near the equator (+/- 30 degrees is fine), point the scope to it, and then adjust the RA ring to agree with the known right ascension of that star. Similarly set the declination ring, and
you are all set.

If the rings are too loose, then you need to check the scope directions (don't you hate that?) and see if there isn't a collet
ring or nut or setscrew or something to tighten it a bit. It still should be moveable when you need to re-adjust the rings (each time you set up the scope you need to set the rings.