The Hand Control

The NexStar SLT's hand controller is designed to give you instant access to all the functions the NexStar has to offer. With automatic slewing to over 4,000 objects, and common sense menu descriptions, even a beginner can master its variety of features in just a few observing sessions. Below is a brief description of the individual components of the NexStar SLT hand controller:

1.Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) Window: Has a dual-line, 16 character display screen that is backlit for comfortable viewing of telescope information and scrolling text.

2.Align: Instructs the NexStar to use a selected star or object as an alignment position.

3.Direction Keys: Allows complete control of the NexStar in any direction. Use the direction keys to center objects in the StarPointer finderscope and eyepiece.

4.Catalog Keys: The NexStar has a key on the hand control to allow direct access to each of the catalogs in its 4,000+ object database. The NexStar contains the following catalogs in its database:

Messier – Complete list of all Messier objects.

NGC – Many of the brightest deep sky objects from the Revised New General Catalog. Caldwell – A combination of the best NGC and IC objects.

Planets - All 8 planets in our Solar System plus the Moon and Sun. Stars – A compiled list of the brightest stars from the SAO catalog.

List – For quick access, all of the best and most popular objects in the NexStar database have been broken down into lists based on their type and/or common name:

Named Stars

Common name listing of the brightest stars in the sky.

Named Objects

Alphabetical listing of over 50 of the most popular deep

Double Stars

sky objects.

Alphabetical listing of the most visually stunning double,

Variable Stars

triple and quadruple stars in the sky.

Select list of the brightest variable stars with the shortest

Asterisms

period of changing magnitude.

A unique list of some of the most recognizable star

 

patterns in the sky.

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Nexstar 102, 60, 80, 130, 114 manual Hand Control

60, 130, 80, 102, 114 specifications

The Nexstar series telescopes, including the Nexstar 114, 102, 80, 130, and 60 models, represent a significant advancement in amateur astronomy, offering a blend of portability, user-friendly design, and advanced technology. Each model is uniquely tailored to cater to different levels of enthusiasts, from beginners to more experienced stargazers.

The Nexstar 114 boasts a 114mm aperture and a focal length of 1000mm, making it ideal for detailed views of planets and deep-sky objects. Its reflector design allows for higher light gathering capability, ensuring bright and clear images. The telescope features a computerized GoTo mount, allowing users to locate and track celestial objects with ease. Its ergonomic design and lightweight build emphasize portability, making it a great choice for both backyard and remote observing.

Next in the lineup is the Nexstar 102, equipped with a 102mm aperture. This refractor telescope is known for its exceptional color correction and crisp images, particularly for planetary viewing. The 102 is user-friendly, with a sturdy mount and easy setup that appeals to newcomers. Its computerized tracking system simplifies locating celestial bodies, enhancing the observing experience.

The Nexstar 80, with its 80mm aperture, is incredibly compact and travel-friendly, perfect for those who want to explore the night sky on the go. Despite its size, it provides impressive views of the moon and bright planets. The telescope offers a lightweight design and quick setup features, making it an excellent starter telescope for kids and casual stargazers.

For those seeking a larger aperture, the Nexstar 130 features a 130mm aperture that delivers stunning views of a variety of celestial objects. With a focal length of 650mm, this compact telescope excels in observing both planets and deep-sky objects. Its GoTo mount provides automated tracking, making it a favorite among intermediate users who desire a bit more capability without extensive setup.

Finally, the Nexstar 60 is an entry-level model that combines affordability with efficiency. With a 60mm aperture, it’s lightweight and extremely portable, perfect for casual observations. It’s equipped with a simple mount and straightforward controls, making it an ideal choice for children or those new to astronomy.

Overall, the Nexstar series telescopes are designed with advanced optics, computerized mounts, and user-friendly interfaces, making them suitable for a wide range of users, from novices to more experienced astronomers. Whether you are looking for ease of portability or more advanced features, there is a Nexstar model tailored to meet your needs and enhance your stargazing experience.