ASTRO-PHYSICS GTO - M, Ngc, IC; Common Object Names; Solar System Objects (Sol)

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refraction calculations, so the actual R.A. and Dec. coordinate position to which you will slew will vary slightly from the
catalog numbers. Please let us know if you nd gross discrepancies.
The separation data of double stars in the ADS catalog is based on “average” numbers. As you know the apparent
separation can vary from year to year. Please consult an ephemeris for the most accurate data.
Magnitudes are estimates and may vary from one source to another. Also, some stars are variable. Some values are
missing from the database and will display zeros in the eld.
M, NGC, IC
These are the most common catalogs used in astronomy and include the brightest and most famous objects including
galaxies, diffuse (bright) nebulae, planetary nebulae, globular clusters and open clusters. Many faint objects visible only
in larger instruments are included also. A few objects are listed in more than one catalog, so there is some overlap. M
(Messier) = 110 objects, NGC (New General Catalog) = 7,840 objects, IC (Index Catalog) = 5,386 objects.
1. Go to Objects menu.
2. Choose M, NGC or IC – press the number that corresponds to your choice (e.g. “1=M’).
3. Enter the catalog number with your Keypad.
4. Choose action:
a) Press GoTo to initiate slewing.
b) Press NEXT> to view the object data, then press GoTo to slew.
c) Press NEXT> again to go to the Sync Menu, if you wish (assuming that you are already pointing at that
object.
d) Press MENU to return to Objects menu.
Common Object Names
This is one of our favorite features. Many of us can’t remember the catalog number of an object; however we remember
the common name. Use this procedure to view 100 of your favorites.
1. From Objects menu, select “8=Tour”.
2. Select “3=Common Obj. Names”. Use <PREV and NEXT> to scroll through
list of names.
3. Choose object. The screen will display the magnitude, type of object and the
constellation where it is found.
4. Press GoTo to initiate slewing, NEXT> to go to the Sync Menu or <PREV to display R.A. and Dec. coordinates.
Solar System Objects (Sol)
WARNING - Observing during the daytime can be dangerous. You must refer to the section entitled “Slewing During the
Day” for precautions.
All the planets, the Moon and the Sun
1. From Objects menu, select “4=Sol” (Solar).
2. Press the number that corresponds to your choice. The coordinates of the
object will display. If not, the display will indicate that it is below the horizon.
3. Press GoTo to initiate slewing or “Menu=Exit”. If you select GoTo, the mount will slew to the object. The magnitude
and constellation data will not display for these objects. If the object is below the horizon, the display will provide that
information.
Common Names:
1=47 Tuc <
2=Andromeda Galaxy
3=Antennae >
Common Object Names Menu
Solar Menu 7=Satn
1=Sun 4=Ven 8=Uran
2=Moon 5=Mars 9=Nept
3=Merc 6=Jupt 0=Plu
Solar System Menu