onstep-python
A Python API for the OnStep Telescope Controller, LX200 compatible
Allows scripting of test scenarios, actual telescope motion, ...etc..
Requires Python3, and Python Serial.
Although this is written specifically for OnStep, it is mostly compatible with other LX200 telescopes, and can easily be adaptable to them.
Configuration
Before using this API, you need to edit the examples/config.py. A few required changes are needed in the examples/config.py:
a. The name of your serial port (if it is different from the default /dev/ttyUSB0) b. The latitude and longitude (lat and lon) c. The UTC offset
If you plan to use the WiFi instead of a serial USB cable, you need to change the HOST parameter in the config.py file.
Quick Start
This method will present a menu for most of the example programs:
cd onstepy
./examples/menu.py
Description
The following sample programs are provided. Adapt them to your own needs:
- init.py - This enables tracking
- align.py - This starts a 1-Star Alignment procedure (select its RA/DEC in config.py)
- home.py - Return home
- slew.py - Slew to a star
- backlash.py - Adjust the backlash on a terrestrial object
- polar_align.py - Do a polar alignment using the :MP method
- drift_test.py - Test if there is drift in RA (equatorial) and RA/DEC (Alt-Az)
- mon.py - Monitor an ongoing test
- report.py - Report on an ongoing test
- batch_align.py - Upload alignment points, with actual vs. instrument coordinates, and let OnStep do an alignment calculation
- stress-test.py - Repeatedly do slews west and east of the meridian, then wait for tracking then repeat. Useful to test thermal shutdown, mount accuracy ...etc.