It’s been a week since I was able to get the telescope out and it looks like the rain is staying for at least another week.

Having played with the mount the last time out I’m optimistic that next time I will be able to get some images without worrying about how to align, balance, track etc etc.

I’m using this wet weather to allow me to investigate a long exposure mod for the Phillips SPC900. I’ve found this site really useful:Mathias Meijer, and have built the dead bug using a 4016 I had already. Before implementing the mod I’m trying to find out if I need to make any further changes because I’ve used the 4016 and not the 4066. The chips are pin compatible but I believe the 4016 has a higher “on” resistance. I also had a rummage around for a 25pin D-type connector to make the parallel port plug, but couldn’t find one. As soon as I have the all the parts I’ll post something here.

I’ll let you know how I get on.