Celestron CPC Series User Manual

I
I
N
N
S
S
T
T
R
R
U
U
C
C
T
T
I
I
O
O
N
N
M
M
A
A
N
N
U
U
A
A
L
L

Celestron CPC Series Specifications

General

Optical Design	Schmidt-Cassegrain
Mount Type	Computerized Altazimuth
Tripod	Heavy-duty stainless steel
GoTo Database	40, 000+ objects
Motorized Tracking	Yes
Focal Length	2032mm (8-inch), 2350mm (9.25-inch), 2800mm (11-inch)
Focal Ratio	f/10
Optical Coatings	StarBright XLT
Highest Useful Magnification	480x (8-inch), 555x (9.25-inch), 660x (11-inch)
Resolution (Rayleigh)	0.5 arc seconds
Resolution (Dawes)	0.57 arcseconds (8-inch), 0.42 arcseconds (11-inch)
GPS	Yes
Power Supply	12V DC
Aperture	8 in (203.2 mm) / 9.25 in (235 mm) / 11 in (279.4 mm)
Lowest Useful Magnification	29x (8-inch), 40x (11-inch)

Summary

Introduction to CPC Telescope

Safety Warnings

Crucial safety guidelines for using the telescope to prevent eye damage and equipment malfunction.

Telescope Assembly

CPC Assembly Steps

Detailed steps for assembling the CPC telescope, including tripod setup and accessory attachment.

Hand Control Operation

Hand Controller Features

Overview of the NexStar hand controller's display, buttons, and catalog access.

Telescope Alignment Procedures

Guides through various alignment methods like Sky Align, Two-Star Align, and Solar System Align for accurate pointing.

Object Finding and Setup

Instructions for selecting celestial objects, slewing, and configuring scope setup and utility functions.

Telescope Basics

Optical System and Image Properties

Explains the Schmidt-Cassegrain optical design, light path, image orientation, focusing, and magnification.

Field of View and Observing Tips

Details on determining field of view, general observing tips, and factors affecting image quality.

Astronomy Basics

Celestial Coordinate System

Defines the celestial coordinate system (RA and DEC) used for locating objects in the night sky.

Polar Alignment Techniques

Explains polar alignment methods using a wedge for astrophotography and techniques like Declination Drift.

Celestial Observing

Observing Solar System and Deep Sky Objects

Provides tips for observing the Moon, planets, and deep-sky objects, including conditions and filters.

Celestial Photography

Photography Techniques and Setup

Covers prime focus, eyepiece projection, PEC, terrestrial photography, and basic setup for astrophotography.

Telescope Maintenance

Optics Care and Collimation

Instructions on safely cleaning the telescope's optics and performing collimation for optimal performance.

Optional Accessories

Accessory Guide

Catalog of optional accessories like Barlow lenses, eyepieces, filters, and adapters to enhance telescope functionality.

Appendix A: Technical Specifications

CPC Model Specifications

Provides detailed technical specifications for different CPC telescope models, including optical and electronic parameters.

Appendix B: Glossary of Terms

Astronomy and Telescope Terminology

Defines key astronomical and telescope-related terms alphabetically, aiding in understanding the manual's content.

Appendix C: Location Data

Longitudes and Latitudes for Setup

Lists longitude and latitude data for various locations in the USA, Canada, and international sites for telescope setup.

Appendix D: RS-232 Connection

Computer Control via RS-232

Details how to connect and control the CPC telescope using a computer via the RS-232 port and NexRemote software.

Appendix E: Time Zone Map

North American Time Zone Reference

Illustrates North American time zones, showing UTC offsets for different regions to aid in time setup.

Sky Maps

Seasonal Star Charts

Provides monthly sky charts detailing constellations and prominent stars visible in the Northern Hemisphere throughout the year.

Observational Data Sheet

Meteor Showers and Eclipses

Presents data on yearly meteor showers and a list of solar and total eclipses visible worldwide.

Celestron Warranty

Two Year Limited Warranty Terms

Outlines the terms, conditions, and limitations of the Celestron two-year limited warranty for the telescope.