constellation of Pegasus. The coordinates of the Right Ascension range from 0h 0mn 0s to 24h 0mn 0s (not inclusive). Therefore, there are 24 primary R.A. lines located at 15 degree intervals along the celestial equator. The objets that are further away, eastwards, from the primary Right Ascension grid line (0h 0mn 0s) carry rising R.A. coordinates.

Consequently, once it is possible to specify the position of all of these celestial objects using their Right Ascension and Declination coordinates the task of searching for objects (especially low brightness stars) using the astronomer's telescope may be simplified. The digital, R.A. (16) and Dec.

(13)setting circles for your telescope can be made up, in practice to read the object's coordinates, by positioning it close to the telescope's telescopic field of view (FOV). The advantage of using these setting circles is however only justified after first correctly aligning the telescope with the North Celestial Pole.

3. Getting Started

Before you can use the telescope effectively, there are still a few steps to be performed.

3.1. Selecting an Eyepiece

1.Always begin viewing with the lowest power eyepiece. (Note: a 20 mm focal length eyepiece is lower power than a 12.5 mm one.) A formula can be used to determine the power of each eyepiece: Telescope focal length divided by eyepiece focal length equals magnification. Ex. 900mm ÷ 20mm = 45X (magnification)

2.Included with this telescope is a 45° Erecting Diagonal Prism. The Erecting Diagonal Prism is used to erect the image you will see. Astronomical telescopes are designed in such a way that the image you see may be UPSIDE DOWN and REVERSED. This is acceptable for viewing celestial bodies.

3.2. Focusing Telescope

1.After selecting the desired eyepiece aim the main telescope tube at a land-based target at least

200yards away (e.g. A telephone pole or a building). Fully extend focusing tube by turning the focus knob.

2.While looking through selected eyepiece, slowly retract focusing tube by turning focusing knob until object comes into focus.

3.3. Aligning Finderscope:

The extended field of vision offered by the 5x24

mmfinderscope (8) makes it easier to aim at an object before viewing it through the main telescope tube with a higher magnification.

1). Remove the front lens cover (33) from the sunshade (29). Look through Main Telescope Tube and establish a well-defined target (see focusing telescope section). Tighten all lock knobs (Declination, Latitude, Right Ascension, Horizontal Axis) so that telescope’s aim is not disturbed.

2). Looking through the finderscope, alternate tightening or loosing each finderscope Adjustment Screw (9) until the crosshairs of the finderscope are precisely centered on the same object already centered in Main Telescope Tube’s field of view.

3). Now, objects located with the finderscope first will be centered in FOV of the main telescope. They can be focused by turning the finderscope’s threaded eyepiece. The image in the finderscope will be reversed.

3.4. Balancing the Telescope

To insure smooth movement of the telescope on both axes of the equatorial mount, it is imperative that the optical tube be properly balanced. We will first balance the telescope with respect to the right ascension (R.A.) axis and then in the declination (Dec.) axis.

1.Keeping one hand on the telescope optical tube (11), loosen the R.A. lock knob (14). Make sure the Dec. lock knob (12) is locked. The telescope should now be able to rotate freely about the R.A. axis. Rotate it until the counterweight shaft (17) is parallel to the ground (i.e., horizontal).

2.Now loosen the counterweight lock knob (20) and slide the weight along the shaft until it exactly counterbalances the telescope. That’s the point at which the shaft remains horizontal even when you let go of the telescope with both hands.

3.Retighten the counterweight lock knob. The telescope is now balanced on the R.A. axis.

4.To balance the telescope on the Dec. axis, first tighten the R.A. lock knob (14), with the counterweight shaft (17) still in the horizontal position.

5.With one hand on the telescope optical tube (11),

Having trouble setting up or making it work? Email us at 900X70@ioptron.com We’ll be glad to help!

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iOptron 6002 Getting Started, Selecting an Eyepiece, Focusing Telescope, Aligning Finderscope, Balancing the Telescope

6001, 6002 specifications

The iOptron 6002 and 6001 are advanced equatorial mounts designed for both amateur and professional astronomers seeking reliable tracking and precision in their astronomical observations. Renowned for their robust construction and advanced technology, these mounts enable users to fully exploit their telescopes' capabilities, ensuring a rich stargazing experience.

Both models feature iOptron’s innovative GoTo technology, which allows users to locate and track celestial objects automatically. With an extensive database of over 200,000 celestial objects, the user can easily choose their target, and the mount will accurately position the telescope. The built-in GPS feature enhances usability, automatically determining the observer's location and the current time, thus simplifying the setup process.

One of the standout characteristics of the iOptron 6002 and 6001 is their impressive payload capacity. The mounts are engineered to handle a variety of telescope sizes and weights, enabling users to attach larger optical tubes while maintaining optimal stability. The robust construction ensures minimal vibrations during observations, providing clearer images and reduced tracking errors.

The iOptron mounts are equipped with dual-axis tracking motors, providing smooth movement across the sky. The high-precision encoders enhance the tracking accuracy of celestial objects, while the internal battery ensures the mounts can operate for extended periods without needing an external power source. This feature makes the iOptron mounts particularly attractive for remote observations and extended astro-photography sessions.

Another notable technology incorporated in these mounts is the user-friendly controller. The intelligent hand controller is designed with a graphical interface that simplifies navigation through the extensive database of star catalogs and observation objects. Users can enjoy customizable options and easily update the firmware via USB connection to keep the system at its best performance.

With their compact design and portability, the iOptron 6002 and 6001 models are ideal for astronomers who wish to take their observatories on the go. The set-up process is quick and straightforward, allowing users to focus more on their observations rather than on complicated installations.

In summary, the iOptron 6002 and 6001 are high-performance mounts equipped with cutting-edge technology and features. From their robust construction, remarkable payload capacity, reliable tracking, and user-friendly controls, these mounts provide an exceptional platform for all astronomy enthusiasts, elevating the stargazing experience to new heights.