ABSTRACT
As telescopes get longer and as exposure times lengthen too (often as a result of slower optics) the key to quality imaging is improved tracking. To some extent, many error mechanisms are reproducible and as a consequence, it is theoretically possible to measure the tracking errors and construct a mathematical model that corrects the tracking error for any mount position, equipment combination and environmental condition. Such models are used by 10 Micron, Software Bisque and others to improve pointing and tracking accuracy. The first golden rule is to make the underlying tracking as good as it can be. This includes: sure-footing of tripod or pier on solid ground, accurate polar alignment, don’t overload the mount, ensure the mount’s mechanism is clean and lubricated, etc. In particular, any flexure or sag between the imaging and guiding system, commonly referred to as differential flexure, cause the imaging and guide cameras to see different tracking errors.
