Celestron NexStar HC manual Assembling the NexStar, Powering the NexStar

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The NexStar 4 comes completely pre-assembled and can be operational in a matter of minutes. The NexStar is conveniently packaged in one reusable shipping carton that contains all of the following accessories:

•25mm SMA Eyepiece – 1¼"

•Star Pointer Finderscope and Mounting Bracket

•The Sky® for Celestron Astronomy Software

Assembling the NexStar

Start by removing the telescope from its shipping carton and setting the round base on a flat table or surface. It is best to carry the telescope by holding it from the lower portion of the fork arm and from the bottom of the base. Remove all of the accessories from their individual boxes. Remember to save all of the containers so that they can be used to transport the telescope. Before the batteries can be installed, the telescope tube should be positioned horizontal to the ground. To do this, gently rotate the front of the tube upwards until it is level with the ground.

Powering the NexStar

The NexStar can be powered by eight AA batteries (not included), an optional 12v AC adapter or an optional car battery adapter. The battery compartment is located in the center of the telescope's base (see figure 3-1).

To power the NexStar with batteries:

1.Remove the battery cover from the center of the base by gently lifting up on the round portion of the cover.

2.Insert the batteries into the battery compartment of the base.

3.Reattach the battery compartment door by gently pushing down on the cover until it snaps into place.

4.Turn on the power to the NexStar by flipping the switch, located at the base of the fork arm, to the "On" position.

Battery Compartment Cover

Figure 3-1: The NexStar 4 Battery Compartment

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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 InformationObserving Tip Tour ModeDirection Buttons Setup Procedures User Objects Utility Features HelpfulNexStar Ready Image Orientation Determining Field of View FocusingCalculating Magnification 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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