5. Getting Started
In order to experience the full GOTO capability of GOTONOVA technology it is very important to set up the mount correctly before observation.
First, loosen tripod rod (#4) and tripod lock (#1) a little. Then loosen azimuth clutch lock (#11) half turn. Check the bubble level indicator (#19), adjust the level adjustment screws (#6), and center the bubble in the indicator. Turn the mount by a hand and make sure that the mount is leveled on all sides while turning. Adjust the level adjustment screws again if the bubble is not centered while turning.
Tighten the azimuth clutch lock (#11). Tighten the tripod knob (#3). Tighten the
5.1.2. Initial Positions
Each time the Mount is turned on, the default position is Parking Position, i.e., altitude is 90º0’0” and azimuth is 180º0’0”,
Face the South. Align the Mount to south by turning the South mark facing south. An additional compass is needed. There are two ways to do so. One is loosen the azimuth clutch lock (#11) a little and manually turn the Mount to face south. Then tighten the azimuth clutch lock again. The other is turn on the mount. Turn the mount facing south using hand control. Then turn off the power. Note: Do not put the compass directly on top of the mount. The motor parts of the mount could affect the pointing accuracy of the compass.
Point to Zenith. Unlock the altitude clutch lock (#13) and rotate the telescope to point up directed at the Zenith. A torpedo level may help.
5.1. Level and Align the Mount
5.1.1. Level the Mount.
Leveling is critical for a good GOTO and tracking accuracy.
tripod lock (#1). Make sure the mount is always leveled.
Figure 19
which means the “SOUTH” mark is pointing to south and the telescope is pointing straight up at the zenith. To set the Park Position, you can:
(2) Up | #13 |
(1) South
Figure 20
Once it is straight
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5.2. Setting Up the Mount
A MiniTower Pro is equipped with a GPS receiver, which will receive the local time,