A project to build an open source Celestron SkySync GPS compatible unit.
Forked and inspired by fantastic project https://github.com/bebrown/nexstar_gps.
Construct a SkySync-compatible unit for attaching a GPS to Celestron mounts that don't already have a GPS, such as the CGEM or AVX.
To build this, you will need:
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A GPS module, such as the uBlox NEO-6M. Commonly used by hoobyists for their quadcopters. Available for about $16.
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A small Arduino, such as the Pro Mini (5V version). Clones available for about $3.
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A TTL serial-to-USB adapter for programming the Arduino (if it does not have an on-board USB port already). Available for about $3.
See schematics diagram.
You will need to download and install the TinyGPS++ library http://arduiniana.org/libraries/tinygpsplus/.
Also needed is the SoftwareSerial library, which is built in to the Arduino IDE.
See this links for more info about Celestron mounts, AUX port, wiring and communication protocol:
https://www.nexstarsite.com/download/manuals/NexStarCommunicationProtocolV1.2.zip https://sites.google.com/site/wayneholder/nexstar-direct-telescope-mount-control https://www.nexstarsite.com/download/CelestronAS_PCinterface.pdf http://www.paquettefamily.ca/nexstar/NexStar_AUX_Commands_10.pdf
Be attentive during construction and testing your device!!! You can easy destroy the motherboard in your astro mount.