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6 • Introduction
This manual is designed to instruct you in the proper use of your Celestron
Newtonian telescope. The instructions are for assembly, initial use, long term
operation, and maintenance. There are seven major sections to the manual. The first
section covers the proper procedure for setting up your Celestron telescope. This
includes setting up the tripod, attaching the telescope to the mount, balancing the
telescope, etc.
The second section deals with the basics of telescope use. Topics include focusing,
aligning the finder, and taking your first look. The third section deals with the
basics of astronomy which includes the celestial coordinate system, the motions of
the stars, and polar alignment. The fourth section deals with celestial observing
covering visual observations of the planets and deep-sky objects. Using both the
setting circles and star hopping are discussed. The fifth section covers celestial
photography working from the easiest to the most difficult. The last major section
is on telescope maintenance, specifically on cleaning and collimation. Keeping
your telescope in proper collimation is the single most important thing you can
do to ensure it performs well.
In addition to the major sections mentioned previously, there is a list of optional
accessories for your telescope that include a brief description of its purpose. This is
the section to consult when you’ve mastered the basics and ready for new, more
challenging observations. The final part of this manual contains a list of objects
that can be observed through your Celestron telescope. Included are the coordinates
for each object, its brightness, and a code which indicates what type of an object it
is. In addition, there is a list of bright stars used for aligning the setting circles.
Read the assembly instructions through completely before you attempt to set up
your telescope. Then, once you’ve set up your telescope, read the section on
“Telescope Basics” before you take it outside and use it. This will ensure that you
are familiar with your telescope before you try to use it under a dark sky. Since it
will take a few observing sessions to familiarize yourself with your telescope, you
should keep this manual handy until you have fully mastered your telescope’s
operation. After that, save the manual for future reference.
Your Celestron telescope is designed to give you hours of fun and rewarding
observations. However, there are a few things to consider before using your tele-
scope that will ensure your safety and protect your eyes and your equipment.
WARNING ! NEVER LOOK DIRECTLY AT THE SUN WITH THE NAKED EYE
OR WITH A TELESCOPE. NEVER POINT YOUR TELESCOPE AT
THE SUN UNLESS YOU HAVE THE PROPER SOLAR FILTER.
PERMANENT AND IRREVERSIBLE EYE DAMAGE MAY RE-
SULT AS WELL AS DAMAGE TO YOUR TELESCOPE.
NEVER USE YOUR TELESCOPE TO PROJECT AN IMAGE OF
THE SUN ONTO ANY SURFACE. INTERNAL HEAT BUILD-UP
CAN DAMAGE ANY ACCESSORIES ATTACHED TO THE TELE-
SCOPE.
NEVER LEAVE THE TELESCOPE UNSUPERVISED, ESPECIALLY WHEN
CHILDREN ARE PRESENT OR OTHER ADULTS WHO MAY NOT BE
A Word of Caution!
How to Use this Manual