The polar axis finder scope is now ready to be used. When not in use, replace the plastic protective cover to prevent the polar finder from getting bumped.
Using the Polar Axis Finder Scope
The reticle of the polar axis finder scope for the Atlas EQ‑G has a tiny star map printed on it that makes precise polar align- ment quick and easy. To polar align the mount using the polar axis finder scope, follow these instructions:
1.Approximately
2.Loosen the Dec. lock lever and rotate the optical tube on the declination axis so the tube is at a 90° angle to the right ascension axis (Figure 8). Tighten the Dec. lock lever.
3.Focus the polar finder by rotating the eyepiece. Now, sight Polaris in the polar axis finder scope. If you have followed the approximate polar alignment procedure accurately, Polaris will probably be within the field of view. If not, move the tripod
4.The mount has a
5.Now use the azimuth adjustment knobs (Figure 2) and the latitude adjustment
positioned within the reticle, you are precisely polar aligned. Retighten the knob underneath the equatorial mount.
If you do not have a clear view of Polaris from your observing site, you will not be able to use the
Note: From this point on in your observing session, you should not make any further adjustments in the azimuth or the latitude of the mount, nor should you move the tripod. Doing so will undo the polar alignment. The telescope should be moved only about its right ascension and declination axes.
Additional Note Regarding Focusing the Polar Axis Finder Scope
The polar axis finder scope is normally focused by simple rota- tion of the eyepiece focus ring. However, if after adjusting the focus ring you find that the image of the reticle is sharp, but the stars are out of focus, then you must adjust the focus of the polar axis finder’s objective lens. To do this, first remove the polar axis finder from the mount by unthreading it. Look through the polar axis finder at a star (at night) or distant object at least 1/4 mile away (during daylight). Use the eyepiece focus ring to bring the reticle into sharp focus. Now, loosen the focus lock ring (Figure 7) and thread the entire objective end of the finder inward or outward until images appear sharp.
Confused About Pointing the Telescope?
Beginners occasionally experience some confusion about how to point the telescope overhead or in other directions. In Figure 1 the telescope is pointed north as it would be during polar alignment. The counterweight shaft is oriented downward. But it will not look like that when the telescope is pointed in other directions. Let’s say you want to view an object that is directly overhead, at the zenith. How do you do it?
DO NOT make any adjustment to the latitude adjustment L- bolts. That will spoil the mount’s polar alignment. Remember, once the mount is polar aligned, the telescope should be moved only on the R.A. and Dec. axes. To point the scope overhead, first loosen the R.A. lock lever and rotate the tele- scope on the right ascension axis until the counterweight shaft is horizontal (parallel to the ground). Then loosen the Dec. lock lever and rotate the telescope until it is pointing straight over- head. The counterweight shaft is still horizontal. Then retighten both lock levers.
a. | b. | c. | d. |
Figure
7