Utility Features, Helpful Hint | Nexstar 130, 60, 80, 102, 114

Direction Buttons –The direction a star moves in the eyepiece varies depending on the accessories being used. This can create confusion when guiding on a star using an off-axis guider versus a straight through guide scope. To compensate for this, the direction of the drive control keys can be changed. To reverse the button logic of the hand control, press the MENU button and select Direction Buttons from the Utilities menu. Use the Up/Down arrow keys (10) to select either the Azimuth buttons (left and right) or Altitude buttons (up and down) and press ENTER. Pressing ENTER again will reverse the direction of the hand control buttons from their current state. Direction Buttons will only change the eyepiece rates (rate 1-6) and will not affect the slew rates (rate 7-9).

Goto Approach - lets the user define the direction that the telescope will approach when slewing to an object. This allows the user the ability to minimize the effects of backlash For example, if your telescope is back heavy from using heavy optical or photographic accessories attached to the back, you would want to set your altitude approach to the negative direction. This would ensure that the telescope always approaches an object from the opposite direction as the load pulling on the scope.

To change the goto approach direction, simply choose Goto Approach from the Scope Setup menu, select either Altitude or Azimuth approach, choose positive or negative and press Enter.

Cordwrap - – Cord wrap safeguards against the telescope slewing more than 360º in azimuth and wrapping accessory cables around the base of the telescope. This is useful any time that the telescope is powered using an external power supply. By default, the cord wrap feature is turned off when the telescope is aligned in altazimuth and turn on when aligned on a wedge.

Utility Features

Helpful Hint

Scrolling through the MENU options will also provide access to several advanced utility functions such as anti-backlash compensation and slew limits.

GPS On/Off - This feature is only available when using your telescope in conjunction with the optional CN 16 GPS accessory. Allows you to turn off the GPS module. If you want to use the NexStar database to find the coordinates of a celestial object for a future date you would need to turn the GPS module off in order to manually enter a date and time other than the present.

Light Control – This feature allows you to turn off both the red key pad light and LCD display for daytime use to conserve power and to help preserve your night vision.

Factory Setting – Returns the NexStar hand control to its original factory setting. Parameters such as backlash compensation values, initial date and time, longitude/latitude along with slew and filter limits will be reset. However, stored parameters such as PEC and user defined objects will remain saved even when Factory Settings is selected. The hand control will ask you to press the "0" key before returning to the factory default setting.

Version - Selecting this option will allow you to see the current version number of the hand control and motor control software. The first set of numbers indicate the hand control software version. For the motor control, the hand control will display two sets of numbers; the first numbers are for azimuth and the second set are for altitude.

Get Alt-Az- Displays the relative altitude and azimuth for the current position of the telescope.

Goto Alt-Az- Allows you to enter a specific altitude and azimuth position and slew to it.

Hibernate - Hibernate allows the NexStar to be completely powered down and still retain its alignment when turned back on. This not only saves power, but is ideal for those that have their telescopes permanently mounted or leave their telescope in one location for long periods of time. To place your telescope in Hibernate mode:

1.Select Hibernate from the Utility Menu.

2.Move the telescope to a desire position and press ENTER.

3.Power off the telescope. Remember to never move your telescope manually while in Hibernate mode. Once the telescope is powered on again the display will read Wake Up. After pressing Enter you have the option of scrolling through the time/site information to confirm the current setting. Press ENTER to wake up the telescope.

Pressing UNDO at the Wake Up screen allows you to explore many of the features of the hand control without waking the

60, 130, 80, 102, 114 specifications

The Nexstar series telescopes, including the Nexstar 114, 102, 80, 130, and 60 models, represent a significant advancement in amateur astronomy, offering a blend of portability, user-friendly design, and advanced technology. Each model is uniquely tailored to cater to different levels of enthusiasts, from beginners to more experienced stargazers.

The Nexstar 114 boasts a 114mm aperture and a focal length of 1000mm, making it ideal for detailed views of planets and deep-sky objects. Its reflector design allows for higher light gathering capability, ensuring bright and clear images. The telescope features a computerized GoTo mount, allowing users to locate and track celestial objects with ease. Its ergonomic design and lightweight build emphasize portability, making it a great choice for both backyard and remote observing.

Next in the lineup is the Nexstar 102, equipped with a 102mm aperture. This refractor telescope is known for its exceptional color correction and crisp images, particularly for planetary viewing. The 102 is user-friendly, with a sturdy mount and easy setup that appeals to newcomers. Its computerized tracking system simplifies locating celestial bodies, enhancing the observing experience.

The Nexstar 80, with its 80mm aperture, is incredibly compact and travel-friendly, perfect for those who want to explore the night sky on the go. Despite its size, it provides impressive views of the moon and bright planets. The telescope offers a lightweight design and quick setup features, making it an excellent starter telescope for kids and casual stargazers.

For those seeking a larger aperture, the Nexstar 130 features a 130mm aperture that delivers stunning views of a variety of celestial objects. With a focal length of 650mm, this compact telescope excels in observing both planets and deep-sky objects. Its GoTo mount provides automated tracking, making it a favorite among intermediate users who desire a bit more capability without extensive setup.

Finally, the Nexstar 60 is an entry-level model that combines affordability with efficiency. With a 60mm aperture, it’s lightweight and extremely portable, perfect for casual observations. It’s equipped with a simple mount and straightforward controls, making it an ideal choice for children or those new to astronomy.

Overall, the Nexstar series telescopes are designed with advanced optics, computerized mounts, and user-friendly interfaces, making them suitable for a wide range of users, from novices to more experienced astronomers. Whether you are looking for ease of portability or more advanced features, there is a Nexstar model tailored to meet your needs and enhance your stargazing experience.