4. Getting Started
In order to experience the full GOTO capability of GOTONOVA technology it is important to set up the mount correctly before observation.
4.1. Level and Align the Mount
4.1.1. Level the Mount.
Leveling is critical for good GOTO and tracking accuracy.
Level the mount by
observing the bubble (shown) on the base of the mount by adjusting the tripod legs. The bubble should be in the center of
the circle. It is also recommended to use additional levelers (such as a torpedo leveler) to assure precise leveling. Turn the mount around by pressing ► or ◄ button to make sure it is always leveled during movement.
4.1.2. Initial Positions
Each time the mount is turned on the default position is Park Position, (i.e.,its altitude is 90º0.0’ and azimuth is 180º0.0’) which means the “SOUTH” mark is pointing to south and the telescope is pointing straight up at the zenith. To set the Park Position you can:
1.Align the mount to south by moving the mount so that the South mark faces south. An additional compass is needed. Unlock the altitude lock (#4) and rotate the telescope to point straight up at the Zenith. A torpedo level may help. Make sure the mount is leveled. Then turn the mount power on.
or
2.Turn the mount power on. Press the SPEED button to select a slew speed (MAX for fast slew and 2X for fine tuning). Turn the SOUTH mark pointing to south using ► or ◄ button. An additional compass is needed. Rotate the telescope to point to zenith using the ▲ or ▼ buttons. A torpedo level may help. Then turn the mount power off and turn it on. Or you can press MENU. Scroll down to “Set Telescope Coord.” Press ENTER. The default number is “Alt: 90º00.0’ and Azi: 180º00.0’”. Press ENTER to complete the initialization.
2)Up
1) South | Alt lock (#4) |
|
4.2. Setting Up the Mount
For a SmartStar® telescope equipped with a GPS receiver, the local time, longitude and latitude information will be received from satellites after a link is established. For units without a GPS receiver this information can be entered manually. Regardless, manual input is still needed for the time zone and Daylight Time Saving settings for all models.
A clear sky outside is needed for GPS to communicate well with the satellites.
4.2.1. Time and Site Set Up
This is critical to ensure the telescope will point to the right direction.
Press MENU button. From the main menu scroll down and select “Set Up Controller”
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