Telescope runaway

One of the most worrying problems that can occur with the telescope control is that the telescope begins to slew uncontrollably. In this event, having read the following few actions in advance may save a lot of panic and, who knows, may even help to stop the telescope before the limit switches do. The actions are listed in order of seriousness.

1.

If in computer mode, type STOP at the TCS User Interface.

2.

Press the large red EMERGENCY STOP button (upper right of control console). There is a second emergency stop button on the telescope primary cell which works equally well.

3.

Check that the handset is plugged into the "observer" socket. If it is there must be some other problem. Call for help.

N.B. The emergency stop buttons for the rising floor have no effect on the telescope!