Care and Cleaning of the Optics, Collimation

While your telescope requires little maintenance, there are a few things to remember that will ensure your telescope performs at its best.

Care and Cleaning of the Optics

Occasionally, dust and/or moisture may build up on the mirrors of your telescope. Special care should be taken when cleaning any instrument so as not to damage the optics.

If dust has built up on the mirror, remove it with a brush (made of camel’s hair) or a can of pressurized air. Spray at an angle to the mirror for approximately two to four seconds. Then, use an optical cleaning solution and white tissue paper to remove any remaining debris. Apply the solution to the tissue and then apply the tissue paper to the mirror. Low pressure strokes should go from the center of the mirror to the outer portion. Do NOT rub in circles!

You can use a commercially made lens cleaner or mix your own. A good cleaning solution is isopropyl alcohol mixed with distilled water. The solution should be 60% isopropyl alcohol and 40% distilled water. Or, liquid dish soap diluted with water (a couple of drops per one quart of water) can be used.

To minimize the need to clean your telescope, replace all lens covers once you have finished using it. Since the telescope tube is NOT sealed, the cover should be placed over the opening when not in use. This will prevent contaminants from entering the optical tube.

Collimation

The optical performance of most Newtonian reflecting telescopes can be optimized by re-collimating (aligning) the telescope's optics, as needed. To collimate the telescope simply means to bring its optical elements into balance. Poor collimation will result in optical aberrations and distortions.

Before collimating your telescope, take time to familiarize yourself with all its components. The primary mirror is the large mirror at the back end of the telescope tube. This mirror is adjusted by loosening and tightening the three screws, placed 120 degrees apart, at the end of the telescope tube. The secondary mirror (the small, elliptical mirror under the focuser, in the front of the tube) also has three adjustment screws. To determine if your telescope needs collimation first point your telescope toward a bright wall or blue sky outside.

Never look directly at the sun with the naked eye or with a telescope (unless you have the proper solar filter). Permanent and irreversible eye damage may result.

Aligning the Secondary Mirror

The following describes the procedure for daytime collimation of your telescope using the optional Newtonian Collimation Tool (#94183) offered by Celestron. To collimate the telescope without the Collimation Tool, read the following section on night time star collimation.

C10-N, C8-NGT, C8-N specifications

The Celestron C8-NGT, C8-N, and C10-N telescopes represent a range of superior astronomical instruments that cater to both novice and experienced astronomers alike. Among these, the C8-NGT combines the advanced features of a computerized telescope with the simplicity of a Newtonian design. Its 8-inch aperture allows for impressive light-gathering capability, making it ideal for observing distant galaxies, star clusters, and nebulae. The GoTo mount enhances usability, enabling users to locate celestial objects effortlessly with the push of a button.

The C8-N, also featuring an 8-inch aperture, stands out with its open tube design that provides maximum airflow and minimizes thermal issues, ensuring optimal performance. The scope is designed with user-friendly adjustments and a sturdy equatorial mount, allowing for smooth tracking of celestial objects. Its high-quality optics provide sharp images and incredible clarity, making it suitable for both planetary and deep-sky observations.

On the other hand, the C10-N is the largest in this lineup, boasting a 10-inch aperture that dramatically enhances its light-gathering ability. This larger size makes the C10-N a powerhouse for serious astronomers looking to explore fainter objects and intricate details within astronomical features. Like the C8-N, it employs a Newtonian reflector design, allowing for a compact and manageable profile, while still providing stunning visuals across a range of celestial bodies.

All three telescopes incorporate Celestron's commitment to creating durable, robust, and user-friendly systems. They utilize premium quality glass and optics, which are coated to improve light transmission and provide high-contrast images. Additionally, they are designed with ease of assembly and portability in mind, catering to astronomers who enjoy observing in various locations.

The Celestron C8-NGT, C8-N, and C10-N serve as excellent options for anyone looking to deepen their astronomical pursuits, offering a blend of advanced technology, high-quality optical performance, and user-friendly features. Whether you're a beginner eager to peer into the wonders of the universe or an experienced observer at the peak of your skills, these telescopes offer a remarkable means to expand your cosmic horizons. With precision engineering and thoughtful design, Celestron continues to be a trusted name in the world of astronomy.