Orion 52173 Parts List, System Requirements refer to Figure, Telescope, Mount, Computer

Welcome to a new world of adventure. Your new StarShoot Solar System USB Eyepiece (SSUE) is capable of capturing detailed, full-color images of astronomical objects in our solar system. The planets, Moon, and Sun (with optional solar filter) can all be imaged to create spectacular views on your computer which can be saved for emailing or print- ing later. The SSUE can even be used during the day to take images of terrestrial subjects. You’ll find that this inex- pensive, yet capable and easy to use camera will enhance all of your journeys with your telescope.

Please read this instruction manual before attempting to use the camera or install the needed software.

Parts List

•StarShoot USB Eyepiece (SSUE)

•CD-ROM

System Requirements (refer to Figure 1)

Telescope

The SSUE can be used with virtually any telescope that is compatible with 1.25" format eyepieces. The camera simply is inserted into a focuser in the same way as a standard eyepiece (Figure 1). If you use a star diagonal, you should remove it before installing the SSUE. If your telescope does not have enough inward focus travel, you will need to use an optional 1.25" Barlow lens to extend the telescope’s focal plane to the camera’s imaging plane (Barlow sold separately).

For most types of astro-imaging with the SSUE, using a telescope with a focal length of at least 1000mm is recommended. Otherwise, the image scale may be too small. To increase the effective focal length of your system, use a Barlow lens or other type of tele-extender lens.

Mount

While using an equatorial (EQ) mount is recommended to achieve the best results, one is not absolutely required for general imaging with the SSUE. Since the maximum exposure time is only a fraction of a second, astronomical objects will not drift significantly through a telescope attached to an altazimuth

Figure 1. To use the SSUE, a telescope, mount and computer are required.

mount or Dobsonian base during single image captures. Use a sturdy mount that is appropriately sized for the telescope tube being used.

For obtaining the best planetary images, however, we do recommend an equa- torial mount. Planetary imaging requires combining many individual images, and having an equatorial mount will prevent the planet from drifting out of the field of view of the camera during the time it takes to acquire the large number of images necessary. A motor drive (single-axis) is recommended too, so you can track the target object as you transmit live images to your laptop or PC.

Computer

A computer is required for normal use of the SSUE. For astro-imaging in the field at night, a laptop computer is highly recommended. The camera driver and Orion Capture software requires Windows XP, Vista or 7.

The following hardware is required:

•Processor – Pentium III™ or equivalent, or higher

•Recommended minimum memory size is 256 MB.

•Disk Space – 100 MB minimum, 500 MB or more recommended for saving images.

•Video Display – 800 X 600, 16-bit color or higher. 1024x768 or higher is recommended.

•Mouse (external or built-in)

•Internet connection required to display on-line help and downloading image processing software

•USB 1.0 or High Speed USB 2.0 port

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