Maintenance and Servicing, Start Sky Tracking

southern hemisphere using Sigma Octantis.

You will need to know where Polaris is in the northern hemisphere. You may find this information via an iPhone/iPad app (iOptron Polar Scope in Apple iTune store).

Shown in Figure 11 is a screen shot of an iPhone chart. For example, on December 3, 2012, 12:48:36 in Boston, USA (Lat N42º30’28” and Long W71º08’49”), the Polaris Position is 10hr 24.1m and r = 40.8min (the green dot on the chart).

Adjust the mount in latitude and azimuth direction to place Polaris in the same position on the Polar Scope Dial as indicated on your iPhone/iPad screen. In this case, the Polaris will be located at a radius of 40.8’ and an angle of 10 hour 24.1 minute.

If you don’t have an iPhone/iPad, you can still get a better

polar alignment

using other programs/ software to calculate the pole star position.

Figure 11. iPhone display

STEP 7. Start Sky Tracking

Now you are ready to track the sky! Point the camera to the sky you are interested in. You may also release two DEC locking screws to rotate the DEC adapter along the RA axis (Make sure all the screws/locks are tightened afterwards). Select N or S (northern or southern hemisphere) depending on your location. Select 1X tracking speed to take photos of only the sky. Select 0.5X tracking speed to include landscape in the photo. S and L speeds are for Solar and Lunar tracking. Double check the polar alignment and realign it if needed. Turn power switch on to begin tracking the sky.

Figure 12. SkyGuiderTM mount control board

Using 0.5X Speed

The 0.5X tracking speed evenly divides image blur between the sky and foreground. With wide-angle lenses, it can produce dramatic images of a starry sky suspended above a landscape with everything sharp to the eye.

Advanced Application

The SkyGuiderTM mount is equipped with a guiding port to enable autoguiding while tracking. The guide port wiring is shown in Figure 13, which is same as that from Celestron / Starlight Xpress / Orion Mount / Orion Autoguider/ QHY5 autoguider pinout.

Figure 13. Guide port pinout

If you have an autoguider that has a pinout similar to ST- i of SBIG, such as Meade/ Losmandy/ Takahashi/ Vixen, make sure a proper guiding cable is used with the SkyGuiderTM mount. Refer to your guiding camera and guiding software for detailed operation.

The SkyGuiderTM mount is also capable of dual camera/scope mounting as shown below.

Figure 14. Dual mounting

Additional accessories are needed for autoguiding and dual mounting.

3. Maintenance and Servicing

3.1. Maintenance

The SkyGuiderTM equatorial mount is designed to be maintenance free. Do not overload the mount. Do not drop the mount. This will damage the mount or degrade the tracking accuracy permanently. Use a damp cloth to clean the mount if necessary. Do not use solvent.

#3500, #3520 specifications

iOptron, a prominent manufacturer in the field of astronomy, has consistently pushed the boundaries of telescope technology. Two standout products from their extensive lineup are the iOptron #3520 and #3500 telescope models. These telescopes are designed for both amateur astronomers and more serious enthusiasts, providing a mix of advanced features, reliability, and exceptional performance.

The iOptron #3520 boasts a lightweight design, making it highly portable for users who wish to observe celestial bodies from various locations. This model features a 5-inch refractor optical system that delivers clear and crisp images, allowing users to explore planets, star clusters, and galaxies with ease. The inclusion of high-quality glass optics is essential for minimizing chromatic aberration, ensuring that images are sharp and vivid even at high magnifications.

One of the standout technologies utilized in the #3520 is the Intelligent GoTo Technology. This feature enables the telescope to automatically locate and track celestial objects using an intuitive handheld controller. The user-friendly interface simplifies the stargazing experience, allowing users to spend more time observing and less time searching for objects. Furthermore, the #3520 is compatible with various accessories, making it customizable according to different preferences and requirements.

The iOptron #3500 model, on the other hand, is designed with advanced tracking capabilities. Equipped with a high-torque motor drive system, the #3500 ensures smooth and precise tracking of objects across the night sky. This telescope is particularly suitable for astrophotography, as it provides a stable platform for capturing long-exposure images of deep-sky objects.

An important feature of the #3500 is its robust mounting system, which enhances stability during observations. The mount is easy to set up and can accommodate heavier optical tubes, making it versatile for various configurations. Additionally, its built-in leveling system ensures that the telescope is perfectly aligned, further enhancing image quality.

Both models prioritize ease of use and accessibility, demonstrating iOptron's commitment to fostering a love for astronomy among enthusiasts of all levels. With quick setup times, user-friendly controls, and exceptional optical performance, the iOptron #3520 and #3500 are indispensable tools for anyone who wishes to explore the wonders of the universe. Whether observing the rings of Saturn or capturing the beauty of a distant galaxy, these telescopes deliver unparalleled experiences that inspire curiosity and discovery.