Telescope Basics 4
INTRODUCTION
Welcome to the Celestron world of amateur astronomy! For more than a quarter of a century, Celestron has
provided amateur astronomers with the tools needed to explore the universe. The Ultima series telescopes
continue in this proud tradition combining large aperture optics with ease of use and portability. With
mirror diameters of 9.25 and 11 inches, your Celestron Ultima 9
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and 11 have a light gathering power of
1,126 and 1,593 times that of the unaided human eye respectively. Yet, their optical systems are extremely
compact and portable despite their large aperture because they utilize the Schmidt-Cassegrain design. This
means you can take your Ultima telescope to the mountains or desert or wherever you wish to observe.
The Ultima telescope is made of the highest quality materials to ensure stability and durability. All this
adds up to a telescope that gives you a lifetime of pleasure with a minimal amount of maintenance. And,
your Ultima telescope is versatile — it grows as your interest in astronomy grows.
But, your Celestron Ultima telescope is not limited to astronomical viewing alone. It can also be used for
terrestrial viewing to study the world around you. All you need to do is take the time to familiarize yourself
with your Ultima telescope and its operation.
HOW TO USE THIS MANUAL
This manual is designed to instruct you in the proper use of your Celestron Ultima telescope. This includes
assembly, initial use, and long term operation and maintenance. There are seven major sections to the
manual. The first section covers the proper procedure for setting up your Ultima telescope and includes
attaching the standard accessories.
The second section covers basic telescope operation. Topics include focusing, aligning the finder, and
taking your first look. The third section deals with the basics of astronomy which includes the celestial
coordinate system, the motions of the stars, and polar alignment. The fourth section describes how to use
the drive. The fifth section covers visual observing of the Moon, planets, and deep sky objects. The sixth
section deals with celestial photography covering all major forms working from the easiest to the most
difficult. The last major section is on telescope maintenance, specifically on cleaning and collimation.
After the major sections mentioned above, there is a partial list of optional accessories for the Ultima
telescope with a brief description of each and its intended purpose. The final part of this manual contains a
list of objects that can be observed through your Celestron Ultima telescope. Included are the coordinates
for each object, its brightness, and a code which indicates object type. There is also a list of bright stars for
aligning the setting circles.
Read the assembly instructions completely before you attempt to set up your Ultima 9
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or 11. Once you
have set up your Ultima telescope, read the section on "Telescope Basics" before using it outside. This will
ensure that you are familiar with your telescope before you use it under a dark sky.
Since it will take a few observing sessions to familiarize yourself with your Ultima telescope, you should
keep this manual handy until you have fully mastered your telescope's operation.
Your Ultima telescope is designed to give you hours of fun and rewarding observations. However, there are
a few things to consider before using your telescope that will ensure your safety and protect your
equipment.
NEVER LOOK DIRECTLY AT THE SUN WITH THE NAKED EYE OR WITH A TELESCOPE.
PERMANENT AND IRREVERSIBLE EYE DAMAGE MAY RESULT.