Orion 10134 XTBg Setup for AutoTracking or GoTo Mode, Scroll Buttons, Dual Purpose buttons

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scope. The left and right directional buttons can also be used to move the text cursor when entering data on the hand con- troller.

Scroll Buttons

The up and down scroll buttons allow you to move up and down within the menu tree or selections displayed on the hand controller LCD.

Dual Purpose buttons

These buttons serve two distinct purposes: for data entry and as quick reference keys.

TOUR button: Takes you on a preset tour of the best night sky objects visible at the present time.

RATE button: Changes the speed of the motors when the directional buttons are pressed. There are 10 speeds to choose from, with 0 being the slowest and 9 being the fast- est.

UTILITY button: “Hot key” access to the Utility Functions menu that provides useful tools in configuring your mount.

USER button: Gives access to up to 25 user-defined coordi- nates.

ID button: Identifies the object the telescope is currently point- ing to.

NGC, IC, M, Planet, and Object buttons: Allow direct access to the database of objects in the most popular celestial cata- logs and categories.

4. Setup for AutoTracking or GoTo Mode

There are two ways to operate the XTg series of telescopes: AutoTracking or GoTo. The initial setup method you choose will determine which mode is activated by the hand control- ler. AutoTracking mode simply provides automatic tracking of celestial objects that you locate by yourself, either by mov- ing the telescope manually (by hand) or electronically using the directional buttons on the GoTo hand controller. The auto- matic tracking keeps the target object from drifting out of the field of view, allowing you to view it at your leisure until you’re ready to move to another object.

GoTo, on the other hand, allows you take full advantage of the database contained within the hand controller to slew (move automatically) to any object you choose. Once you have land- ed on your target the telescope will track it, keeping it in the field of view.

Please review carefully the two setup methods outlined below. Once you have completed your initial setup you will need to perform an alignment procedure for GoTo pointing, or activate AutoTracking.

Setup for AutoTracking or GoTo Mode

1.Place the telescope on a level surface. Having the tele- scope on level ground will aid tracking accuracy. However,

Figure 23. The altitude motor housing has the ON/OFF power switch and several cable ports.

you will still be able to take advantage of these features if you are on a slight incline.

2a. [For AutoTracking Mode setup] Locate the altitude scale on the inside of the left side panel. Position the opti- cal tube horizontally so that the altitude scale is set to zero and aim the telescope North.

2b. [For GoTo Mode setup] Manually position the optical tube so it is pointing anywhere above the horizon.

[Steps 3 – 8 Apply to both AutoTracking and GoTo Mode setup]

3.Connect the hand controller to the base with the provided coil cable. Insert the RJ-12 connector of the cable into the jack labeled “HC” on the altitude motor housing (see Figure 23). Plug the 12-volt DC power cable (connected to your 12-volt DC power source) into the Power jack on the altitude motor housing. Now flip the red power switch on the housing to the “on” position.

4.The display will show the firmware version loaded on the device. Press ENTER to proceed. A warning will scroll across the screen about not viewing the sun without proper equipment. After you have read this message press ENTER.

5.Enter the telescope’s current latitudinal and longitudinal position using the numeric keypad and scroll buttons. First enter the longitudinal coordinate and hemisphere (W or E), followed by the latitudinal coordinate and hemisphere (N or S). If you do not know the latitude and longitude coordinate of your viewing location, consult an atlas or geographical map of your area. Press ENTER to confirm your coordinates. The format you enter should look like this: 123° 04’W 49° 09’N.

Note: Latitude and longitude coordinates must be entered in degrees and arcminutes. If your map or atlas gives coordinates in decimal values (i.e. latitude = 36.95 N) you

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Contents Orion SkyQuest XTg GoTo Dobsonians Overview of SkyQuest XTg Dobsonian 12 shown Unpacking Table of ContentsParts List Base hardware for SkyQuest XTg Box #2 Dobsonian Base Refer to Figures 3Assembly of the Dobsonian Base AssemblyAssembly of the Optical Tube XT12g Only Shaft Spring Operating the EZ Finder Connecting the Optical Tube to Dobsonian BaseAccessory Installation EZ FinderAligning the EZ Finder Replacing the BatteryUsing Eyepieces GoTo Hand Controller Dual Purpose buttons Setup for AutoTracking or GoTo ModeSetup for AutoTracking or GoTo Mode Scroll ButtonsBrightest Star Alignment Using the Telescope AutoTracking ModeAlignment for GoTo Operation Two-Star Alignment SW 235SEPointing Accuracy Enhancement PAE Using the Telescope in GoTo ModeObject Database in the Hand Controller Selecting an ObjectUtility Functions Other FunctionsTracking Setup FunctionsPage Identifying an Unknown Object Using the User Defined DatabaseSaving an object to the database Recalling a user-defined objectUpdating the GoTo Hand Controller’s Firmware Disconnecting from the ComputerPreparing the Computer for the Update Linking with a ComputerAligning the Secondary Mirror Collimating the Optical SystemCollimation Cap and Mirror Center Mark Preparing the Telescope for CollimatingAligning the Primary Mirror Using Your TelescopeStar-Testing the Telescope Focusing the Telescope1200mm = 42x 28mm Viewing with EyeglassesAiming/Pointing the Telescope MagnificationAstronomical Observing Moon Astronomical ObjectsCleaning Mirrors Care and MaintenanceCleaning Eyepiece Lenses SkyQuest XT10g SpecificationsSkyQuest XT8g SkyQuest XT12g Menu Tree Appendix a Time Zones of the World Appendix B RS-232 Connection Additional RS-232 Commands Sending a Tracking RateSending a Slow-GoTo Command Resetting the Position of Azimuth or AltitudeStar Charts Page Page Page Page Page Page Page Page One-Year Limited Warranty

10135 XT10g, 10134 XTBg, 10135XT12g, #10134 XT8g specifications

The Orion #10134 XT8g, #10135 XT12g, #10134 XTBg, and #10135 XT10g are exceptional choices in the realm of computerized telescopes, catering to both novice stargazers and seasoned astronomers. These models are designed for easy use while delivering stellar performance and high-quality optics.

At the heart of these telescopes is the high-quality optics that Orion is renowned for. Each model features a primary mirror made from durable glass, enhanced with a parabolic shape to minimize optical distortions and improve light gathering capabilities. The XT8g and XT10g utilize an 8-inch and 10-inch mirror, respectively, while the XT12g boasts a large 12-inch aperture, providing users with deeper views of celestial phenomena. The larger the aperture, the more light the telescope can collect, revealing fainter objects in the night sky.

In terms of technology, the "g" designation signifies that these telescopes are equipped with Orion’s innovative GoTo system. This advanced motorized mount enables users to easily locate and track celestial objects with the push of a button, making the stargazing experience more enjoyable and accessible. The system includes a database of thousands of celestial objects, allowing users to explore the universe with ease.

The XTg models also come with an intuitive hand controller that features a user-friendly interface for navigating the night sky. Additionally, the telescopes can be controlled via a smartphone or tablet, providing flexibility for tech-savvy users who prefer modern conveniences.

Durability and stability are crucial in any telescope, and the XT series does not disappoint. Each model is constructed on a robust and stable base, designed to minimize vibrations and provide a steady view, even at higher magnifications. This stability ensures that amateur astronomers can enjoy detailed views, from the craters of the moon to the rings of Saturn and beyond.

Each telescope comes with a cradle-style altazimuth mount for easier adjustments and tracking capabilities. The included eyepieces allow for various magnifications, enhancing the viewing experience and enabling observers to appreciate the beauty of the cosmos.

In summary, the Orion XT series, including the #10134 XT8g, #10135 XT12g, #10134 XTBg, and #10135 XT10g, stands out for their exceptional optics, innovative GoTo technology, robust build quality, and user-friendly operation. These telescopes are ideal for anyone wishing to explore the wonders of the night sky, making them a worthy investment for years of astronomical discovery.
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