Orion EQ-G instruction manual Table of Contents, Unpacking, Assembly, Parts List

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Congratulations on your purchase of a quality Orion mount. Your new Atlas EQ-G mount works with many different optical tubes. Designed for astronomical use, the Atlas EQ-G provides a solid, stable foundation for precise navigation of the night sky. The internally housed, dual-axis stepper motors provide smooth slewing and tracking of any celestial object. With a little practice, you’ll find that the Atlas EQ-G mount is an invaluable tool for getting the most out of your astronomical observing sessions.

These instructions will help you set up and properly use your equatorial mount. Please read them over thoroughly before getting started.

Table of Contents

1.

Unpacking

. 3

2.

Parts List

3

3.

Assembly

3

4.

Attaching a Telescope

4

5.Balancing a Telescope . . . . . . . . . 4

6.Setting Up and Using the Equatorial Mount . . 5

7.The Atlas EQ-G Dual Axis Hand Controller . 8

8.The Atlas EQ-G GoTo Hand Controller . . 10

9.Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

10.Appendices . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

1. Unpacking

The entire mount will arrive in three boxes, one containing the tripod, one containing the equatorial mount, and one con- taining the hand controller. Be careful unpacking the boxes. We recommend keeping the boxes and original packaging. In the event that the mount needs to be shipped to another location, or returned to Orion for warranty repair, having the proper packaging will ensure that your mount will survive the journey intact.

Make sure all the parts in the Parts List are present. Be sure to check the box carefully, as some parts are small. If anything appears to be missing or broken, immediate- ly call Orion Customer Support (800-676-1343) or email support@telescope.com for assistance.

Box 3: Dual-Axis Hand Controller

1Dual-Axis hand controller

2Nylon hook-and-loop strips (1 hook strip, 1 loop strip)

1 Wire clip

If you’ve purchased the #7947 GoTo hand controller:

Box 3: GoTo Hand Controller

1 GoTo hand controller

1GoTo hand controller cable for Sirius EQ-G

1GoTo hand controller cable for Atlas EQ-G

1GoTo hand controller bracket

1Computer interface cable (RS-232)

1Wire clip

3.Assembly

Refer to Figure 1 as needed during the assembly process.

1.Stand the tripod legs upright and spread the legs out as far as they will go. Make certain that the leg lock levers are tightened. Keep the tripod legs at their shortest (fully retracted) length, for now; you can extend them to a more desirable length later, after the mount is fully assembled.

2.Place the base of the equatorial mount onto the tripod head. Orient the equatorial mount so that the post on the tripod head lines up with the azimuth adjustment knobs on the equatorial mount (Figure 2). You may need to loosen the azimuth adjustment knobs on the equatorial mount in order to fit the mount onto the tripod head.

2. Parts List

Box 1: Tripod

Qty. Item

1Tripod

2Counterweights (11lbs. each)

1Tripod center support tray

Box 2: Equatorial Mount

1 Equatorial mount

1Tube ring mounting plate

112V DC Power cable

If you’ve purchased the #7945 Dual-Axis hand controller:

Azimuth adjustment knobs

Post

Figure 2. Orient the equatorial head so that the post on the tripod lines up with the azimuth adjustment knobs on the equatorial mount.

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Contents #9996 Orion Atlas EQ-GPage Unpacking Table of ContentsAssembly Parts ListBalancing a Telescope Attaching a TelescopeTurns, until you can slide the telescope tube forward Setting Up and Using the Equatorial MountPolar Alignment Polar Axis Finder ScopeAlignment of the Polar Axis Finder Scope Confused About Pointing the Telescope? Using the Polar Axis Finder ScopeAtlas EQ-G Dual-Axis Controller Atlas EQ-G Dual-Axis hand controller Setting the Slewing SpeedAtlas EQ-G GoTo Hand Controller Attaching the GoTo Hand Controller Installing the hand controller bracketGoTo Hand Controller Operation Telescope and mount in their home position AlignmentTips for Choosing Alignment Stars Three-Star AlignmentTwo-Star Alignment One-Star AlignmentShortcut Buttons Object CatalogPointing Accuracy Enhancement PAE Selecting an ObjectOther Functions Auto Guiding Recalling a User Defined ObjectIdentifying an Unknown Object Linking with a ComputerUpdating the GoTo Hand Controller Preparing the Computer for the UpdateTechnical Specifications #7795 Dual-Axis hand controller#7796 GoTo hand controller Atlas EQ-G GoTo Hand Controller Menu Tree Appendix a Enhancing the Pointing Accuracy Cone Error CalibrationTesting for Cone Error Calibration ProcedureB.Rotate the telescope 180 about the R.A.axis PEC Training Appendix B Periodic Error Correction PECPlay Back the PEC Record Appendix C RS-232 Connection Additional RS-232 Commands Sending a Tracking RateSending a Slow-GoTo Command Resetting the Position of Azimuth or AltitudeAppendix D Standard Time Zones of the World One-Year Limited Warranty

EQ-G specifications

The Orion EQ-G Equatorial Mount is a popular choice among amateur astronomers and astrophotographers seeking a reliable and versatile platform for their telescopes. Known for its robust build and advanced technology, the EQ-G mount can support a wide range of telescope sizes, making it ideal for both visual observations and astrophotography.

One of the standout features of the Orion EQ-G is its precision go-to capability. Equipped with a computer-controlled system, users can easily locate and track celestial objects with remarkable accuracy. The mount comes with a database that includes thousands of celestial objects, allowing users to automatically point their telescope to stars, planets, galaxies, and more with the push of a button.

The EQ-G mount features a sturdy aluminum construction, ensuring stability even under heavy loads. It can support telescopes weighing up to 30 lbs, making it suitable for medium to large telescopes. The mount's adjustable altitude and azimuth motions allow for smooth tracking of celestial objects as they move across the sky, a vital characteristic for long-exposure astrophotography.

To enhance user experience, the EQ-G is equipped with a built-in dual-axis servo motor drive system. This drive system delivers precise movement control, ensuring that the telescope can be accurately guided to desired targets. Furthermore, the mount is compatible with various control options, including hand controllers and computer software, allowing for a customizable and convenient observing experience.

Another notable technology within the EQ-G is the polar alignment scope. This feature aids in achieving accurate polar alignment, which is crucial for minimizing tracking errors during long exposures. By correctly aligning the mount, users can take stunning astrophotographs with minimal star trails.

For portability, the EQ-G mount comes with a quick-release design that allows for easy setup and takedown. Its adjustable tripod legs provide a stable base on various terrains, making it possible to observe from different locations, whether in the backyard or at a remote dark-sky site.

In summary, the Orion EQ-G Equatorial Mount combines an intuitive design with high-quality features, making it a fantastic choice for astronomy enthusiasts. With its go-to capability, sturdy construction, precise tracking, and user-friendly setup, the EQ-G stands out as a reliable and effective tool for exploring the wonders of the night sky. Whether you are capturing stunning images of celestial objects or simply enjoying visual astronomy, the Orion EQ-G meets the diverse needs of astronomers at all levels.
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