Seestar EQ Polaris Finder (Clock Position)
Practical Guide: shows you as an approximation/orientation where Polaris is "on the clock" – plus manual mode if you prefer to set it yourself. No external data, runs completely offline in the browser.
TZ: …
Hemisphere: …
Inputs
Location + Date/Time
North = positive, South = negative. (For the Southern Hemisphere, "Polaris" is not visible – the tool acts as a directional guide instead.)
Without longitude, the auto-accuracy (confidence) decreases.
Note: Display in your local timezone (e.g., UTC/Berlin). No external time synchronization.
2.0 o'clock
Use this if the approximation doesn't match your reticle orientation (some setups mirror/rotate the view).
Important: The Auto-Mode uses a simple astronomical approximation (Sidereal Time → rough Polaris clock position).
Local factors (reticle orientation, mirroring in view, mechanical play) may vary.
If it looks "odd": Use Manual and then do the Mini-Test (10s→20s→30s→60s).
Graphic: Clock/Compass Dial
Marker = Polaris Position (Clock Position)
How to read it: Imagine the dial as a clock. 12 = top, 3 = right, 6 = bottom, 9 = left.
Depending on the view (through device vs. from behind the setup), it might look mirrored → in that case, set Manual by feel.
Clock Position
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Direction
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Confidence
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Improve EQ Alignment (max 5 steps)
Short Explanation (for users)
The "Polaris Clock Position" describes where Polaris is currently located around the celestial pole – similar to the hour hand on a clock.
This helps with EQ alignment because you are not just aiming "roughly North", but placing Polaris specifically at a position around the pole.
This module provides an orientation: In Auto-Mode, an approximate clock position is calculated from Date/Time and rough location.
This is often enough to get much closer to a good alignment without complicated apps.
Since reticle views may appear mirrored or rotated depending on the device/view, there is also the Manual-Mode:
You set the clock position yourself (e.g., if you use a different reference) and still get the graphic + checklist.
Afterward, confirm practical usability best with short test exposures (10s → 20s → 30s → 60s) and adjust minimally as needed.
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