Celestron NexStar HC manual

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Resolution

The minimum detectable angle an optical system can detect. Because of diffraction, there is a limit

 

to the minimum angle, resolution. The larger the aperture, the better the resolution.

Right Ascension: (RA)

The angular distance of a celestial object measured in hours, minutes, and seconds along the

S -

Celestial Equator eastward from the Vernal Equinox.

 

Sidereal Rate

This is the angular speed at which the Earth is rotating. Telescope tracking motors drive the

T -

telescope at this rate. The rate is 15 arc seconds per second or 15 degrees per hour.

 

Terminator

The boundary line between the light and dark portion of the moon or a planet.

U -

 

Universe

The totality of astronomical things, events, relations and energies capable of being described

 

objectively.

V -

 

Variable Star

A star whose brightness varies over time due to either inherent properties of the star or something

W -

eclipsing or obscuring the brightness of the star.

 

Waning Moon

The period of the moon's cycle between full and new, when its illuminated portion is decreasing.

Waxing Moon

The period of the moon's cycle between new and full, when its illuminated portion is increasing.

Z -

 

Zenith

The point on the Celestial Sphere directly above the observer.

Zodiac

The zodiac is the portion of the Celestial Sphere that lies within 8 degrees on either side of the

 

Ecliptic. The apparent paths of the Sun, the Moon, and the planets, with the exception of some

 

portions of the path of Pluto, lie within this band. Twelve divisions, or signs, each 30 degrees in

 

width, comprise the zodiac. These signs coincided with the zodiacal constellations about 2,000 years

 

ago. Because of the Precession of the Earth's axis, the Vernal Equinox has moved westward by

 

about 30 degrees since that time; the signs have moved with it and thus no longer coincide with the

 

constellations.

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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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