ReAlign

Re_Align is an iPhone assistant designed to guide astronomers and astrophotographers through the setup and alignment of an equatorial mount.

Using geographic location, device orientation, and the camera, the app guides the user through the main mount preparation steps with clear instructions and progressive checks.

MAIN FEATURES

• Automatic calculation of the correct polar-axis elevation based on the latitude detected through GPS.

• Step-by-step guidance for tripod levelling and initial mount adjustment.

• Day mode for orienting the polar axis toward true north when Polaris is not visible.

• Night mode for alignment toward the celestial pole.

• Visual guidance for adjusting the mount’s azimuth and altitude axes.

• Sky image capture and star-field recognition on compatible devices.

• Assisted three-star alignment procedure.

• Quality checks for magnetic interference, insufficient GPS accuracy, or unsuitable measurement conditions.

• Interface optimised for outdoor use and nighttime astronomy sessions.

DAY MODE

Re_Align uses geographic location and the iPhone’s orientation sensors to indicate true north and the correct elevation of the polar axis.

Because a smartphone compass may be affected by metal components, motors, and counterweights, the app always displays the estimated reliability of the measurement and advises the user to keep the device at an appropriate distance from the mount.

POLAR ALIGNMENT MODE

During nighttime observing sessions, Re_Align guides the user toward the celestial pole and displays the corrections required on the mount’s azimuth and altitude axes.

THREE-STAR ALIGNMENT

On supported devices and under suitable observing conditions, the app analyses an image of the sky and assists the user in selecting three stars distributed appropriately across the celestial sphere.

The procedure can improve the mount’s pointing model when used with compatible hardware.

IMPORTANT

Re_Align is a setup assistance tool. On a manual mount, all adjustments must be physically performed by the user.

Accuracy may vary depending on the iPhone model, GPS signal quality, magnetic interference, sky visibility, and correct installation of the mount.

Re_Align does not replace the safety procedures or instructions provided by the mount manufacturer.