If you are unfamiliar with telescopes you will probably be unaware that telescopes actually come in two main parts – the optical component and the mount, which is the generic term for the mechanism which supports the optics.
Understanding the different types of mounts is essential knowledge for some-one considering a telescope purchase; uninformed or incorrect choice may impact negatively on both the user’s enjoyment and limitations of use.
– The altazimuth mount –
The word altazimuth is just the marriage of two words which describe this mount’s function. The up and down movement on one axis is known as the altitude and the back and forth movement on the horizontal axis is called the azimuth. These two motions allow the telescope to be pointed anywhere in the sky.
This type of mount is the most basic and inexpensive and is therefore the obvious choice for beginners. If your requirements are for easy aiming, a solid support and for a piece of equipment simple enough that it can be made at home then the altazimuth mount is where you should start.
– Equatorial mounts –
This type of mount is for the observer who has moved beyond casual stargazing and wishes for something more than the basics from their telescope.
Equatorial mounts allow the user to track objects in the sky as they appear to move although, of course, it is actually the earth which is rotating. An adjustable axis, which has to be set correctly before use, aligns the telescope with the earth’s rotational axis.
The concept of an equatorial mount requires greater depth of understanding than the altazimuth mount and although many beginners do use and get enjoyment from this type of mount it isn’t necessary at the outset. However, should you wish to use your telescope for photography then this is the mount you will need rather than the altazimuth.
Equatorial mounts come in a variety of different shapes and sizes known as the German equatorial mount, the equatorial platform and the equatorial fork mount.
Equatorial mounts are also used for satellite dishes.
– GoTo mount –
The most recent addition to the mount family brings telescope technology into the computer age. A GoTo is the term used for a mount which can be programmed to point at any given planet, star or sky object chosen by the astronomer. This is controlled either through an integrated processor and hand set or through link-up with a personal computer.
GoTO mounts can be of the altazimuth or equatorial variety.
There are other types of mounts but these are mainly used by large observatories or space research agencies who need very specific equipment for very large telescopes.
Selecting a mount can seem a little overwhelming when you are just starting out but specialist stores which stock telescopes and accessories often have highly knowledgeable staff who are more than happy to advise you.
Should you wish to have a go at making your own beginner’s altazimuth mount the Internet is a rich resource. Type ‘making a home-made altazimuth mount’ into a search engine and you will be flooded with websites offering advice, how-to guides and video demonstrations.
