Celestron NexStar HC Object Catalog, Selecting an Object, Slewing to an Object, More Information

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In order to accurately center the alignment star in the eyepiece, it may be necessary to decrease the slew rate of the motors for fine centering. This is done by pressing the RATE key (11) on the hand controller then selecting the number that corresponds to the speed you desire. (9 = fastest , 1 = slowest).

Third Star Alignment

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The NexStar has a third star alignment feature which allows you to replace either of the two original alignment stars with a new star. This can be useful in several situations:

If you are observing over a period of a few hours, you may notice that your original two alignment stars have drifted towards the west considerably. (Remember that the stars are moving at a rate of 15º every hour). Aligning on a new star that is in the eastern part of the sky will improve your pointing accuracy, especially on objects in that part of the sky.

When trying to locate a very faint or small object that may be difficult to find in the eyepiece, you can improve your pointing accuracy by aligning to a third star that is nearest to the object you are trying to find.

To replace an existing alignment star with a new alignment star:

1.Locate and center the desired star in the eyepiece.

2.Select the centered star from the list of alignment stars in the hand control.

3.When the name of the centered star is displayed, press the ALIGN key on the hand control.

4.The display will then ask you which alignment star you want to replace.

5.Use the UP and Down scroll keys to select the alignment star to be replaced. It is usually best to replace the star closest to the new star. This will space out your alignment stars across the sky.

6.Press ENTER to make the change.

Object Catalog

More

Information

Selecting an Object

Now that the telescope is properly aligned, you can choose an object from any of the catalogs in the NexStar's extensive database. The hand control has a key (4) designated for each of the catalogs in its database. There are two ways to select objects from the database: scrolling through the named object lists and entering object numbers.

1.Pressing the LIST key on the hand control will access all objects in the database that have common names or types. Each list is broken down into the following categories: Named Stars, Named Object, Double Stars, Variable Stars and Asterisms. Selecting any one of these options will display an alpha-numeric listing of the objects under that list. Pressing the Up and Down keys (10) allows you to scroll through the catalog to the desired object.

2.Pressing any of the catalog keys (M, CALD, NGC, or STAR) will display a blinking cursor below the name of the catalog chosen. Use the numeric key pad to enter the number of any object within these standardized catalogs. For example, to find the Orion Nebula, press the "M" key and enter "042".

To download a list of all the stars contained in the STAR Catalog with SAO number cross references, logon to our web site at www.celestron.com and go to the NexStar page.

Slewing to an Object

Once the desired object is displayed in the hand control screen, you have two options:

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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 NexStarEyepieceStarPointer Diagonal Hand ControlEyepiece 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 Slewing to an Object Object CatalogSelecting 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 PlanetsSeeing Conditions Observing the SunObserving Deep Sky Objects 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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