![Standard Tripod Leg (ETX-90EC)](/images/new-backgrounds/101935/10193525x1.webp)
4.Each table tripod is equipped with two adjustable tripod legs: The standard tripod leg is used at observing latitudes as shown in the box in step 5 and has a dual latitude label attached (Fig. 15). The
5.Locate the two mounting holes on the bottom of the telescope drive base. Mount the appropriate adjustable tripod leg (as determined in step 4) to the drive base using the following latitudes:
Standard Tripod Leg (ETX-90EC)
32.5° to 48.5° uses
22° to 35.5° uses alternate hole (3, Fig. 16).
High-Latitude Tripod Leg (ETX-90EC)
56° to 66° uses
Standard Tripod Leg (ETX-125EC)
33.5° to 49.5° uses
High-Latitude Tripod Leg (ETX-125EC)
CHAPTER
3
7
2 8
51
Dec.at 90°
3
46
Fig.16: Example of Polar Alignment Using the #880 Table Tripod and
(7) R.A. scale pointer; (8) #1422 |
8. Note the line and arrow extending from the telescope tube in |
Fig. 16. This line defines the telescope’s polar axis. Lift the |
entire telescope, including tripod, and place the telescope on |
a firm and level surface so that this axis is pointing due North |
56.6° to 67° uses
Thread the appropriate leg into the required hole to a firm feel only.
6.A small thumbscrew (6, Fig. 16) is attached to both the standard and
Example: The latitude of New York City is 41°. The tripod leg should be extended so that the center of the thumbscrew is set next to the 41° reading on the scale.
Fig.15:
Example of
Standard Tripod
(i.e., if the location of Polaris, the North Star, is known then |
point the telescope directly at Polaris). |
9. If using the |
hemisphere, extend the leg until the telescope’s polar axis |
points to Polaris, or due North, an alignment obtained by |
sighting along the telescope tube with the telescope oriented |
as shown in Fig. 16. |
NOTE: Observer’s located in the earth’s Southern Hemisphere (e.g., South America, Africa, Australia, etc.) should point the telescope’s polar axis due South.
10.With the telescope now
NOTE: For almost all astronomical observing requirements,
CAUTION:When using the #880 Table Tripod Leg Latitude with the
Latitude Balance Weight is recommended if
the telescope is to be polar aligned below 30°, or if heavy accessories are attached to the
NOTE:With the standard tripod leg threaded into the appropriate hole in the drive base, the latitude scale may be at an inconvenient position for reading (e.g., the scale faces the drive base). This situation can be remedied by unthreading the leg, removing the thumbscrew, rotating the inner leg 180°, then reinserting the thumbscrew. The scale should now be readable when threaded back into the telescope base.
7.Loosen the vertical and horizontal locks (6 and 10, Fig. 1) and rotate the telescope so that it is oriented as shown in Fig. 16. Tighten the vertical and horizontal locks. In this orientation the telescope’s optical tube is lined up parallel to the tripod’s adjustable leg.
approximate settings of the telescope’s latitude and polar axis are acceptable. Do not allow undue attention to precise polar alignment of the telescope to interfere with your enjoyment of the instrument. In those unusual cases where more precise polar alignment is desirable, refer to APPENDIX C, page 24.
Fig. 17: Locating Polaris.