RedCat 51 Rotation Collar

thingiverse

There is a rotator built into the RedCat 51. It's manual but it uses a finely graduated ring with degree markings. By lining up a pointer on the rotator to the markings on the ring, precise angles can be set. The problem is that the pointer doesn't line up with the camera - not on mine, anyway. When the camera is upright, the pointer is on the underside of the telescope. The ring with degree markings can be rotated but the zero and nearby markings would still be on the underside of the scope. Then, too, the relationship between the pointer and the camera could change arbitrarily depending on the adapters, filter, filter holder (or wheel) and the camera. It would be nice if the pointer was adjustable and independent from the rotator so it could align with the camera regardless of the consist of the optical train. That's what this project is for. There are two rings. The first is very simple with its only adornment being a notched box to hold the pointer. The pointer itself is a bit of filament sharpened to a point that fits in the notch snugly without glue. A little persuasion fits the ring onto the telescope rotator. Rotating the ring is a little stiff but it stays in position very well. I think that the second ring isn't needed. The other ring serves a few functions. It can help to support and hold the first ring in position. Tape or glue can make the two pieces stronger together but they would be fixed in position. (Don't apply glue while they're on the rotator.) This piece also makes a good gripper to hold the RedCat's rotator while adjusting the pointer ring (if you don't glue them). Frankly, for me, the pointer ring is doing a good job alone.