SX mount to OnStep
Introduction
In this series, we present a modification guide that transforms the Vixen SX equatorial mount into a highly scalable and flexible control environment through precision tracking, PC integration, and open-source implementation. While the stock DC motor drive is easy to use, it has limitations in tracking accuracy and positional repeatability. Therefore, in this series, we will replace the equatorial mount’s motor with a stepper motor and implement the open-source control system OnStep to achieve precise angular control, stable tracking, and high-speed GOTO.
OnStep offers excellent expandability. By integrating with ASCOM (the Windows astronomy control standard) and INDI (the astronomy control protocol for Linux/Raspberry Pi), you can uniformly control the equatorial mount from a PC, smartphone, or planetarium software. Furthermore, it enables automated control via custom Python programs, creating a flexible system that allows you to freely build your own observation workflow.
In this series, we will explain step-by-step, across four chapters, the process of transforming the SX equatorial mount into “a single unit adapted to an observational environment with expandability and flexibility.”
- Introduction
- Chapter 1: Replacing the Motors on the SX Equatorial Mount
- Chapter 2: Configuring the OnStep Unit and Peripheral Devices
- Chapter 3: Flashing the OnStep Firmware
- Chapter 4: PC Integration and Operation Using ASCOM