3.Once complete the NexStar will automatically slew to the first alignment star. If the star that is chosen is in the north, it may be below the horizon. If so, abort the slew by pressing any of the arrow direction buttons before the telescope tube comes into contact with the base. Press the UNDO button to select an alignment star that is above the horizon. Use the hand control to center the alignment star with the Star Pointer and press ENTER, then center the star in the eyepiece and press ALIGN. Repeat this step with the second alignment star. For complete AutoAlign procedures, see NexStar GT section of this manual.

4.Now that the NexStar is polar aligned switch the tracking mode to EQ North. This will turn off the altitude motor and allow the Azimuth motor to track like a right ascension tracking motor. To switch to EQ North tracking, press the MENU button and press ENTER at the Tracking Mode sub-menu. Use the scroll buttons to select EQ North and press ENTER.

Photography with the NexStar 4

After looking at the night sky for a while you may want to try photographing it. In addition to the specific accessories required for celestial photography, there is the need for a camera - but not just any camera. The camera does not have to have many of the features offered on today's state-of-the-art equipment. For example, you don't need auto focus capability or mirror lock up. Here are the mandatory features a camera needs for celestial photography. First, a “B” setting which allows for time exposures. This excludes point and shoot cameras and limits the selection to SLR cameras, the most common type of 35mm camera on the market today.

Second, the “B” or manual setting should NOT run off the battery. Many new electronic cameras use the battery to keep the shutter open during time exposures. Once the batteries are drained, usually after a few minutes, the shutter closes, whether you were finished with the exposure or not. Look for a camera that has a manual shutter when operating in the time exposure mode. Olympus, Nikon, Minolta, Pentax, Canon and others have made such camera bodies.

The camera must have interchangeable lenses so you can attach it to the telescope and so you can use a variety of lenses for piggyback photography. If you can't find a new camera, you can purchase a used camera body that is not 100-percent functional. The light meter, for example, does not have to be operational since you will be determining the exposure length manually.

You also need a cable release with a locking function to hold the shutter open while you do other things. Mechanical and air release models are available.

Attaching a Camera to the NexStar

The NexStar 4 has a special adaptor port located on the back of the rear cell to connect a 35mm camera body. Attaching a camera to the NexStar requires the use of the optional T-adapter (#93635-A) and a T-ring specific to the brand of camera being used. To attach the photographic

accessories:

Camera Body

1.Remove the screw-on cover from the photo adaptor port on the rear cell.

2.Thread the T-adapter securely onto the photo adapter port.

3.Thread the T-ring onto the exposed end of the T- adapter.

4.Remove any lens from the body of your camera.

5.Attach the camera body to the T-ring by aligning

the red dot on the side of the T-ring with the dot on the camera body and twisting.

Before attempting photography through your NexStar make

 

T-Ring

 

 

 

 

 

T-Adapter

 

sure that the flip mirror is in the "down" position. This will

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Figure 7-4 – NexStar with photographic Accessories

allow the light path to go straight through the optical tube and

 

pass directly into the camera.

 

 

 

 

 

30

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Celestron NexStar HC manual Photography with the NexStar, Attaching a Camera to the NexStar
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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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