1.Press the INFO Key. This will give you useful information about the selected object such as R.A. and declination, magnitude and most importantly, altitude above the horizon. (If a star alignment has not yet been performed, the altitude will not be displayed).

The speed at which information scrolls across the hand control display can be changed while the information is being viewed:

•Hold down the “1” key to speed up the scroll speed.

•Hold down the “4” key to slow down the scroll speed.

•Hold down the “7” key to freeze the information on the display.

2.Press the ENTER Key. This will automatically slew the telescope to the coordinates of the object.

Caution: Never slew the telescope when someone is looking into the eyepiece. The telescope can move at very fast slew speeds and may hit an observer in the eye.

Object information can be obtained without having to do a star alignment. After the telescope is powered on, press the UNDO key. Pressing any of the catalog keys allows you to scroll through object lists or enter catalog numbers as described above. However, information such as R.A. and declination of planets and altitude above the horizon will not be displayed unless the telescope is first properly aligned.

Observing

Tip

Tour Mode

The NexStar includes a tour feature which automatically allows the user to choose from a list of interesting objects based on the month in which you are observing. The Tour mode is activated by pressing the TOUR key (6) on the hand control. Once activated, simply use the scroll keys to select the current month and press ENTER. The NexStar will display from a list of the best objects to observe based on the month entered.

•To see information and data about the displayed object, press the INFO key.

•To slew to the object displayed, press ENTER.

•To see the next tour object, press the Up key.

When going through any of the object catalogs in the database, you can easily find out which objects are above the horizon and visible simply by pressing the INFO button when the desired object is displayed. This will display the objects altitude above the horizon based on the date and time entered. Pressing the UP button once will display any scrolling text associated with that object. The scrolling text can be viewed even if a star alignment has not been performed.

Direction Buttons

The NexStar has four direction buttons in the center of the hand control which control the telescope motion in altitude (up and down) and azimuth (left and right). The telescope can be controlled at nine different speed rates.

Rate Button

Pressing the RATE key (11) allows you to instantly change the speed rate of the motors from high speed slew rate to precise guiding rate or anywhere in between. Each rate corresponds to a number on the hand controller key pad. The number 9 is the fastest rate (4º per second, depending on power source) and is used for slewing between objects and locating alignment stars. The number 1 on the hand control is the slowest rate (1x sidereal) and can be used for accurate centering of objects in the eyepiece and photographic guiding. To change the speed rate of the motors:

•

•

Press the RATE key on the hand control. The LCD will display the current speed rate.

Press the number on the hand control that corresponds to the desired speed. The LCD will display "NexStar Ready" indicating that the rate has been changed.

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Celestron NexStar HC manual Direction Buttons, Tour Mode, Observing Tip
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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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