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Polar Alignment Using Compass and Bubble Level

 
This method of polar alignment is probably the most universally usable since visibility of any reference stars or in a particular direction is not required.

Sources of error in this method include the readability of the bubble level, compass, and azimuth scale plus the accuracy of transferring readings to the mount position, so mounts which include these as built-in features are desirable.

When using a compass, be sure to compensate for the magnetic deviation from true north as shown below and keep away from magnetic materials in the mount which may affect compass readings. Magnetic deviation information is shown on USGS topographic maps.

 


Copyright 2001 by David A. Kodama