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Set Observation Site Coordinates
The third and fourth lines display the longitude and latitude coordinates respectively. The
longitude and latitude coordinates will be automatically updated when the GPS picks up a satellite
signal. “W/E” means Western/Eastern Hemisphere; “N/S” means Northern/Southern Hemisphere; “d”
means degree; “m” means minute; and “s” means second.
If, for any reason, your GPS does not pick up the satellite signal, you can manually enter your
longitude and latitude coordinates. Press the ◄ or ► key to move the cursor, use the ▲ or ▼ key to
toggle between “W” and “E”, and “N” and “S”, and use the number keys to change the numbers. It is
always a good idea to do your homework and get longitude and latitude coordinates before traveling to
a new observation site.
The site coordinates information can be found from your smart phone, GPS receiver or via the
internet. Site information in decimal format can be converted into d:m:s format by multiplying the
decimal numbers by 60. For example, N47.53 can be changed to N47º31'48”: 47.53º = 47º +0.53º,
0.53º=0.53x60'=31.8', 0.8'=0.8x60"=48". Therefore, 47.53º=47º31'48" or 47d31m48s.
Select N/S Hemisphere
The Northern/Southern Hemisphere will be selected automatically when the latitude is set,
unless the latitude is near the equator. When the latitude is between -10° ~ +10°, set it to Northern
Hemisphere if the polar axis is pointing to North, or Southern Hemisphere if the polar axis is pointing to
South.
STEP 8. Polar Alignment
In order for an equatorial mount to track properly, it has to be accurately polar aligned. A
CEM120 mount does not come with an optical polar scope. There are a few ways to perform the polar
alignment.
Polar Alignment Software
There are quite a few alignment software available or polar alignment, such as TPoint with The
Sky software, PemPro, or Alignmaster
Optional Electronic Polar Scope
A CEM120 has a built-in USB connection (iPolarScope port) for an electronic polar scope. With
a proper adapter, an electronic polar scope, such as PoleMaster can be installed onto the mount and
ready to use.
Figure 17. CEM120 with an installed electronic polar scope
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