Celestron NexStar HC manual Hand Control

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The NexStar 4 HC telescope is a precision scientific instrument that will allow you to enjoy viewing numerous objects in the night sky — planets, nebulae, star clusters, galaxies and more. Equipped with high speed motors and hand control, the NexStar HC allows you to remotely move your telescope to desired objects quickly and accurately. At a touch of a button, you can slew your telescope across the sky in a matter of seconds and continuously track objects as the Earth rotates beneath them. The NexStar HC is fully upgradeable and can be equipped with the optional NexStar Hand Control with a database of over 4,000 objects (see the Optional Accessories section of this manual).

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Figure 4-1

The NexStar HC Hand Control

The Hand Control

The NexStar HC has a removable hand control that gives the user quick access to all the motion controls the NexStar HC offers. Below is a brief description of the individual components of the NexStar HC hand controller:

1.Star Key Activation Light: Indicates that the Star button has been pressed and the utility functions on the hand control are active.

2.Direction Buttons: Allows complete control of the NexStar in any direction. Use the direction keys to move the telescope from object to object or for centering objects in the eyepiece.

3.Rate: Instantly changes the rate of speed of the motors when the direction buttons are pressed. Press this button repeatedly to cycle through the speeds of the motors.

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Contents Page Celestial Coordinate System Telescope Maintenance Some of the many standard features of the NexStar include Flip Mirror Focuser Knob Direction Buttons Page Powering the NexStar Assembling the NexStarHand Control EyepieceEyepieceStarPointer Diagonal Flip Mirror Control Focuser KnobStar Pointer Finderscope Star Pointer Finderscope with Mounting BracketPage Hand Control Utility Features Rate ButtonGuideStar Software NexStar Hand Control Alignment Procedure Hand Control OperationEnter Object Catalog Selecting an ObjectSlewing to an Object More InformationTour Mode Direction ButtonsObserving Tip Setup Procedures User Objects Utility Features HelpfulNexStar Ready Image Orientation Focusing Calculating MagnificationDetermining Field of View General Observing Hints Celestial Coordinate System Celestial sphere seen from the outside showing R.A. and DECMotion of the Stars Polar Alignment with optional Wedge DefinitionPhotography with the NexStar Attaching a Camera to the NexStarFinding the North Celestial Pole Observing the Moon Observing the PlanetsObserving the Sun Observing Deep Sky ObjectsSeeing Conditions TransparencySeeing Care and Cleaning of the Optics Super Modified Achromatic SMA Eyepieces 11/4 Page Page Appendix a Technical Specifications Appendix B Glossary of Terms Page Page Appendix C Maps of Time Zones Page Page Page Page Page Page Page Celestron ONE Year Warranty Page Addendum to Nexstar Telescope Manual

NexStar HC specifications

The Celestron NexStar Hand Controller (HC) is an advanced control unit designed to enhance the astronomical observation experience for both novice and experienced stargazers. This innovative device is an integral part of the NexStar telescope series and offers a range of features that simplify the process of locating celestial objects.

One of the main features of the NexStar HC is its user-friendly interface. The controller is equipped with a large, illuminated LCD screen that displays essential information clearly, even in low-light conditions. The layout is intuitive, allowing users to quickly familiarize themselves with its functions. The keypad includes dedicated buttons for common tasks, making it easy to navigate the expansive database of celestial objects.

The NexStar HC boasts an impressive database containing over 40,000 celestial objects, making it a powerful tool for astrophotography and observational astronomy. Users can access planets, stars, galaxies, and nebulae at the touch of a button. The built-in database allows for precise and efficient locating of objects, significantly reducing the time spent searching the night sky.

One of the standout technologies featured in the NexStar Hand Controller is the GoTo functionality. This advanced tracking technology enables the telescope to automatically locate and track celestial objects with high precision. By entering the desired object into the controller, users can allow the telescope to autonomously adjust its position, providing a hassle-free experience.

Additionally, the NexStar HC supports various alignment methods, including SkyAlign, AutoAlign, and One-Star Align. These alignment techniques assist in calibrating the telescope for optimal tracking and positioning. The SkyAlign method, in particular, allows users to point the telescope at any three bright stars, and the HC will calculate the telescope's location in relation to those stars, making alignment accessible even for beginners.

The NexStar Hand Controller is also compatible with Celestron’s StarSense technology, enabling automatic alignment using a smartphone. This feature allows users to refine their observations seamlessly and provides a modern twist to traditional stargazing methods.

Other notable characteristics include programmable go-to tracking speeds and the ability to save user-defined locations. The controller’s ergonomic design ensures comfort during long observing sessions, while the robust build quality guarantees durability.

In summary, the Celestron NexStar Hand Controller combines a wealth of features and cutting-edge technologies to enhance the stargazing experience. Its user-friendly interface, extensive database, versatile alignment methods, and compatibility with advanced tracking systems make it an indispensable tool for anyone looking to explore the wonders of the night sky.
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