collomation tools

Each time i take the scope out, i try adjusting the collomation. i do this for about an hour until i get as close as i can to perfect, however, im not sure if my collomation is accurate. i try using the startest. i just get bored and cold and start viewing objects. i want to be able to collomate quickly and easily, to a good degree of accuracy. are there any tools that help me do this on a SCT?

I'm not an expert on collimating SCTs, but my understanding is that once you get it right, you shouldn't need to touch it again unless the scope receives some very rough handling to rattle the optics. They are pretty difficult to knock out of alignment. When star-testing, the star >must< be smack bang in the centre of the field of view or the diffraction rings will always appear decentred.

Phil.

Phillip is right! You should only have to collimate it maybe once every 6 months! Do you have Bobs Knobs?

no, never got bobs knobs. to install them id have to remove the screws completely putting my scopy out of collomation and im to afraid to do that!

They were already installed on my scope when i bought it! There are so many collimation tools out there! I know people who swear by the cheshire method then others who like the laser mate! Ive never collimated in my life so i cant help much!

I'm not an expert on collimating SCTs, but my understanding is that once you get it right, you shouldn't need to touch it again unless the scope receives some very rough handling to rattle the optics. They are pretty difficult to knock out of alignment. When star-testing, the star >must< be smack bang in the centre of the field of view or the diffraction rings will always appear decentred.

Phil.

You should use a reticle eyepiece when collimating using this method. It's the best way of centreing the target. And if possible make Polaris your target - minimal movement.

I have a C5 for nearly 3 years and I've only had to adjust it once but without the reticle eyepiece (which I normally use for aligning finders) I would have found it difficult.