Telescope Swing & Clearance Calculator
Geometry & Inputs (Plan View)
Horizontal offset from pier centerline to RA axis centerline.
Distance from RA axis to DEC/saddle pivot.
Forward reach to the most forward point.
Rearward reach to the furthest point.
Knobs/encoders/bosses protruding beyond RA axis.
Safety allowance added to the maximum reach.
Optional: dome/roll-off inner free diameter.
RA axis to outer face along shaft.
Half the block thickness (radial protrusion).
Vertical Envelope (Side View)
Pier height + head offset up to the saddle pivot.
Measured perpendicular to sadle to heighest point
When telescope is closest to the ground the distance from dovetail to lowest point.
Presets / Test Cases
Use these to sanity‑check the calculator quickly.
Plan View (top‑down)
Dashed circle = maximum swing radius (with margin). Green = axes, blue = OTA tips, orange = CW outer.
Side View (vertical envelope)
Rectangle = conservative vertical envelope (with margin). Compare Top to roof/shutter height.